The Northwestern Health Unit says it will soon start scaling back COVID vaccination clinics.
The Health Unit says due to staffing and decreasing numbers they will be wrapping up the large community clinics in early February.
To increase accessibility, the clinics being offered next month include evening hours at community-based clinics as well as daytime school-based sessions.
Medical Officer of Health Dr. Kit Young Hoon adds, “Once the large-scale clinics wrap up, individuals can still get their COVID-19 vaccine from NWHU, however, there will be fewer clinics and less appointments available at each one.”
She is urging everyone to get out and get their first, second, or third dose.
“If you don’t see your community listed in the booking system and want a dos of the COVID-19 vaccine, you can book an appointment in a larger community, or if transportation is an issue, you can call your local NWHU office to be added to a waiting list. Once we have enough people interested to set up to clinic date in that community, we will inform those on the list,” says Dr. Young Hoon.
Vaccines are also available at participating pharmacies.
Dr. Young Hoon stresses, “There is consistent evidence that a booster dose provides moderate protection against infection with the Omicron variant and even more importantly provides very good protection against severe disease with this disease. The COVID vaccine is saving lives.”
“I encourage you to get vaccinated as soon as possible. When we manage outbreaks in high-risk settings, that vaccination makes a significant difference in reducing the risk of people being hospitalized,” says Dr. Young Hoon.
Dr. Kit Young Hoon notes we have above average provincial coverage rates as a whole.
She says over 173,000 doses have been given and more than 86% of the eligible population has at least two doses.
The booster shot rate for those over the age is more than 55%, while 57% of kids aged 5-11 have received their first shot.
To book an appointment, visit Northwestern Health Unit Booking Information Page
