SWPH Encouraging 12 to 39 Age Demographic to Get Vaccinated

Tuesday, 27 July 2021 06:18

Southwestern Public Health is encouraging everyone who is eligible to get vaccinated against COVID-19 especially those in the 12 to 39 age demographic.

SOUTHWESTERN PUBLIC HEALTH - Southwestern Public Health is asking young people to get vaccinated.

They are specifically hoping to reach out to the 12-39 year old demographic. Medical Officer of Health Dr. Joyce Lock says the time to act is now.

“The variants of concern have changed the pandemic. It is not the same virus as it was last year. Across the country and the world, the Delta variant is sending otherwise healthy people to hospital with severe illness. It is sending young people to hospital. Your age will not protect you, but the vaccine will. It’s the best defense against illness, disability and death and it’s the best chance we have to emerge from this pandemic and reduce the restrictions we've been living under.”

It has never been easier to get vaccinated in Ontario. The mass vaccination clinics in Woodstock, St. Thomas and Tillsonburg are accepting walk in, same day appointments. The Tillsonburg clinic is only available on Fridays. SWPH is also hosting pop up clinics this week in Zorra Township and Ingersoll.

The Zorra Township clinics will be held at the Beaty Room from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and in the large hall at the Embro Zorra Community Centre from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. The clinic will be open to anyone for their first or second dose and no appointment is needed.

The Ingersoll Vaccine Clinic is happening this Friday July 30th from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. for anyone 12+ at the Ingersoll District Memorial Arena, located at 97 Mutual Street South. This is a walk in clinic, no appointments are necessary.

Program Manager of the local COVID-19 Vaccination Task Force Jaime Fletcher says they are happy to answer any questions.

“Our team is here to reassure you and answer your questions. We can book your appointment for you or you can walk right in to a clinic. We also have in-vehicle vaccinations at our Mass Immunization Clinics, and pop-up clinics happening across the region this week.”

The public health unit urges anyone who is 28 days past their first dose to get their second dose as quickly as possible by walking into a clinic or rebooking online here.

Anyone who needs help booking or rebooking can call 1-800-922-0096 ext. 9 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday to Friday.