Lambton Public Health is offering free vaccine clinics beginning over the March Break, in an effort to clear a two year backlog for many local school-aged children.
Shots for Hepatitis B, HPV, and Meningococcal were not offered at school during COVID pandemic-related closures.
Lambton Medical Officer of Health Dr. Sudit Ranade said they've expanded the eligibility and appointments are now available.
"Remember that many of those vaccines are two to three dose series vaccines," said Dr. Ranade. "You will need multiple visits in order to finish the series for those vaccines. We're offering this as a catch up opportunity for people who have fallen behind on their regular immunizations."
Children in Grades 7 to 12, or born between 2004 and 2009, are eligible to get their shots, or complete their vaccine series if they've already started them.
"Just as a reminder, we get consent from parents for all of the vaccinations that we do in schools," said Dr. Ranade. "When we do that, we have the opportunity to reach a number of different kids in that age group throughout the community over the course of multiple years. So, we've lost out on two to three years."
Parents are reminded that they are required to report their child's immunizations to Lambton Public Health.
For more information, and to book a vaccine, visit www.getthevaccine.ca. You can also contact the vaccine call centre for assistance at 226-254-8222.
There's also the opportunity to book an appointment through a primary care provider.
