P.E.I. reports another COVID-related death; 19 people in hospital

Prince Edward Island has announced another death related to COVID-19.

The person was 80 years and above, the province said in a release on Saturday.

This is the province's 10th COVID-related death since the pandemic began.

The P.E.I. Chief Public Health Office considers adeathrelatedtoCOVID-19 "whenCOVID-19 is the cause ofdeathor is a contributing factor."

Nineteen people are in hospitalbeing treated for the virus. The number of people in intensive care has gone up to three.

Two other people in hospital have also tested positive, but werethere for other reasons.

The province had271 new cases and 301 recoveries as of 8 a.m.

There are 2,430 active cases. There have been 7,545 since the pandemic began.

Vaccination clinics taking some walk-ins for boosters

Earlier on Saturday, Health P.E.I. said itsCOVID-19 vaccination clinics are taking more appointments next week.

About 1,100 appointments are available for Islanders over 12to get afirst or second doseand for those over 18 to get a booster shot, according to a release Saturday.

Over 700 appointments are open for people over 30 looking to get a booster. Islanders in the age bracket will also have the option to get athird dose ata walk-in appointment next week, provided clinics haven't reached their daily capacity.

Special walk-in clinics for boosters for people over 50 will also take place in the following locations:

• County Fair Mall on Mondayfrom 9:45 to 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.
• Sherwood Business Centre on Tuesdayfrom 7:30 to 10:30 a.m. and 1 to 3 p.m.
• Souris Hospital on Tuesdayfrom 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. and 1 to 3 p.m.

There must be at least a five-and-a-half-month interval between a second shot and a booster. A third dose is only recommended for people over 18.

Pediatric vaccines are offered by appointment only. Twenty-five spots are still available at dedicated children's vaccine clinics.

Islanders can book their vaccine online or by calling the toll-freeCOVID-19 booking line.

Testing clinics were closed on Saturday due to severe weather.