The Grey Bruce Health Unit is opening up specially scheduled vaccinations for the needs of immunocompromised and pregnant patients.
The health unit says the clinics will primarily offer first dose vaccines to the people that qualify as well as a second dose for the select group that is eligible.
The clinics will be open each Thursday at designated times, located at the Julie McArthur Centre in Owen Sound. The health unit advises however, as the vaccine rollout continues, specific clinics could also be held at other locations and can accommodate between 50 to 100 patients a week.
In a release the health unit notes, clients will have to attest to their unique status and anyone that does not meet the qualifications, “takes a dose of vaccine away from those with the greatest need and risk of severe illness related to Covid.”
The people identified for their first dose include:
-Organ transplant recipients
-Hematopoietic stem cell transplant recipients
-Neurological diseases in which respiratory function may be compromised
-Haematological malignancy diagnosed under one year
-Kidney disease eGFR under 30
-Pregnant individuals
-Other treatments causing immunosuppression
The health unit says that in order for the vaccine to be effective, some select groups of patients need specific intervals between their treatments and medications and receiving the vaccine.
Those approved to book their second dose within the 21 to 28 day period include:
-Transplant recipients
-Individuals with malignant hematologic disorders and non-hematologic malignant solid tumors receiving active treatment
-Residents of long-term care homes, retirement homes, Elder Care Lodges and Assisted Living facilities
-First Nation communities and First Nation individuals living outside of First Nation Communities
-High Risk Healthcare workers
Details on booking, vaccine eligibility, schedules, progress and more can be viewed at the health units website.
