Thank you, Mr. Chair.
As the honourable member noted, indeed this week Health Canada authorized the submission by Pfizer to extend the period in which the vaccine could be stored, subsequent to thawing it in a refrigerator between about 2°C and 8°C, to 31 days. It had been previously authorized five days in refrigerators. Pfizer has gained experience through its initial work with ultra-cold storage and then for a period of time at -20°C and now is able to store it for up to 31 days in refrigerators.
This will enable a broader utilization of the Pfizer vaccine. I'll make a few comments and then turn to Iain Stewart for any further comments, given the Public Health Agency's responsibility for vaccine rollout, but it will enable broader use of the Pfizer vaccine in settings such as pharmacies or in the territories, as well as in settings such as family physicians' practice clinics.
Mr. Chair, I would turn to Iain Stewart for any further comments.