The latest numbers from the Middlesex-London Health Unit show just over 73% of people in the region have received their first dose of the COVID-19 vaccination.
Medical Officer of Health Dr. Chris Mackie says that number needs to get higher.
"It's definitely what we're watching right now, we do see the number (of people with the first shot) increasing every week. We're still seeing climbing numbers and that's what's important," he said at a virtual media briefing on Monday. "We're aiming for 85% or higher, and if we don't hit that, especially with Delta, Delta also spreads about twice as quickly as the original variant."
"It means we need even better protection if we're going to reach herd immunity and put this pandemic to bed," he added.
As of June 19 (the last date for which official figures are available), 394,467 doses of COVID-19 vaccinations had been administered in Middlesex-London. That doesn't include more than 20,000 doses that were given out over the weekend at mass vaccination clinics.
Mackie expects those numbers to rise as vaccine supply grows.
"Looking forward to adding even more capacity in the days and weeks to come," he said.
London Mayor Ed Holder agreed that the urgency of the vaccination campaign remains.
"What about those who haven't even taken their first shot? What's that about?" Holder said, "Our vaccination uptake has been excellent so far, but as we know, one dose is not enough, especially with the Delta variant."
Holder said he and his wife both moved their appointments up and got their second shots last week.
The remarks come as cases continue to decline in the region. Only five new cases were reported on Monday.
"There is definitely a flattening off of the curve, we've seen a dramatic decline since the peaks we had in the spring," Mackie said. "We really are in a race with the Delta variant of COVID. Can we get enough second doses into arms to protect against a fourth wave this summer?"
Vaccine appointments can be booked at covidvaccinelm.ca
Anyone is eligible for their first shot. Anyone who got their first shot 28 or more days ago is eligible for their second shot.
