Chatham-Kent's vaccination team is starting to focus on getting people 12-17 years of age their COVID-19 shots and getting more of the population their second doses.
Chatham-Kent Medical Officer of Health Dr. David Colby said those are top priorities right now to make sure that students are fully immunized when returning to school in September, and getting the pandemic in the rear view mirror.
On Thursday, Chatham-Kent Public Health announced a walk-in clinic for those 12 and older who haven't gotten their first dose yet. The clinic will be held at the Bradley Centre in Chatham on Monday and will run from 3:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
CK Transit will have free shuttles to and from the Bradley Centre during the clinic hours. Click here for pick up and drop off points and more transit information.
Dr. Colby said he's trying to get more people vaccinated with the rising number of Delta variant cases in Ontario.
“By eliminating the hassle of pre-booking appointments and finding transportation to the clinic, we will be able to get more Chatham-Kent residents vaccinated against COVID-19 before the Delta variant arrives here,” said Colby.
There will be 300 walk-in appointments available on a first come, first served basis on Monday to get an mRNA vaccine. Those looking to get their first shot who are unable to attend Monday’s walk-in clinic can visit GetYourShotCK.ca and book an appointment at an upcoming clinic.
At the moment, the only COVID-19 vaccine approved for use in Canada for those under 18 is Pfizer. Moderna, AstraZeneca, and Janssen are still in trials for that group.
Colby also said it's time to embrace the mixing of mRNA vaccines for adults.
For those who consume alcohol and marijuana, the doctor noted that alcohol and marijuana are fine after getting a COVID-19 shot as long as the marijuana is not smoked. He doesn't endorse smoking of any type.
Thursday's vaccination update from Chatham-Kent Public Health showed that 71 per cent of the population 18 and over have received at least one dose and 27 per cent have received two doses. The same report showed that 41 per cent of those 12-17 have received at least one dose.
Colby noted he would like to see 90 per cent of the eligible population vaccinated against COVID-19 when everything is said and done, understanding that some people are strongly against getting vaccinated.
