Mass Vaccination Clinics Up and Running in Woodstock and St. Thomas

Monday, 15 March 2021 13:50

By ChrisM

Marion Gillepsie was the first person in line to get vaccinated in Woodstock this morning at Goff Hall. The senior from Innerkip rolled up her sleeve so she can visit her grand kids and great grand kids again.

WOODSTOCK - A senior citizen from Innerkip was the first person to get a needle in the arm at the Mass Vaccination Clinic in Woodstock this morning.

Marion Gillespie was the first person in line this morning for the shot. Gillespie says she got the vaccine because she just wants to see her grand kids and great grand kids again. Program Manager leading the COVID-19 Immunization Task Force Jaime Fletcher says it was an emotional morning in both Woodstock and St. Thomas, the site of the other mass vaccination clinic.

"This is an historic moment for our health unit, and for the COVID-19 pandemic response. There were certainly tears from our community members who came in to be vaccinated today, and also from our own team – the hope that comes along with these vaccinations is palpable. With every dose in arms, we are one step closer to ending this pandemic in our communities."

Rodney resident, Frank Gratton was the first person to get the need in St. Thomas. Gratton is a member of the local Indigenous community in Elgin County and explains why he got his dose.

"I am most looking forward to getting back to normal. I firmly believe vaccine will help us all get there sooner,” said Gratton, a member of the local Indigenous community in Elgin County."

More than 2,000 vaccinations will be given over the course of this week, with another 5,000 planned for the week of March 22. The next time to book an appointment will be on March 22 at 8 a.m. for the following week.

Starting today, Ontario also launched a provincial appointment booking system in select regions; however, Southwestern Public Health will continue to use its existing booking system for the time being. You can visit the Southwestern booking portal online at www.covidvaccinelm.ca or by calling 226-289-3560. Please do not call public health, primary care providers, or arrive at the vaccination clinics to book appointments.