Public Health Grey Bruce says its COVID-19 vaccine clinics are currently fully booked, but it is planning to bring back its Hockey Hub mass immunization clinics soon.
It says the demand for vaccines has significantly increased since the Government of Ontario’s announcement on December 15th that all Ontarians 18 and older can book an appointment for a booster shot as long as it’s been three months since their last one.
Bruce Power has offered some central locations that Public Health is currently evaluating to see if they’re suitable.
The Health Unit says once the plans and locations are finalized, thousands of appointments will be available to residents that are eligible. They say their vaccine website is also being updated to reflect these changes.
Meanwhile, Public Health says pharmacies and primary care providers are also administering vaccines in Grey Bruce. For a list of pharmacies locally, visit: COVID-19 pharmacy vaccine locations (ontario.ca)
The Health Unit says booking in the mass immunization clinics will be available in the coming days as soon as the locations are finalized.
Meanwhile, it says celebrations are important activities for mental and social well-being, but warns events and gatherings have the potential to increase the risk of COVID-19 transmission.
Grey-Bruce has seen a significant increase in COVID-19 cases.
Public Health says, “At this time of year, we call on all residents to do everything they can to prevent the spread of COVID-19.”
It adds, “Perhaps the most important thing to remember this Holiday season is to stay home if you have symptoms, or if you have symptomatic individuals at home, if you are a contact of a confirmed case, or if you are directed to stay home by public health.
Other recommended precautions include:
Limiting the number and size of your celebrations
Consider celebrating only with those within your household at this time.
Get tested at an Assessment Centre if you have symptoms.
Get your full series of the COVID-19 vaccine.
Work from home or remotely as much as possible;
Follow international travel guidelines
Grey Bruce Medical Officer of Health Dr. Ian Arra says “I thank and commend all who have maintained the diligent effort to contain the spread of this virus,” adding, “The last present anyone of us wants to give our families and friends is a COVID-19 infection; safe holidays is what our families and communities deserve.”
