in Chatsworth, Grey Highlands, Southgate, West Grey
December 02, 2021
The Grey Bruce Health Unit (GBHU) has provided initial vaccine coverage data and feedback, gathered from parents and guardians, from the first week of five to 11 year-old COVID-19 vaccine clinics.
As of the morning of December 2, 2021, 1,171 first doses of the COVID-19 vaccine have been administered to those between the ages of five and 11 years in Grey and Bruce. This segment of Grey Bruce has an estimated population of 13,005 (based on Statistics Canada 2020 Population Estimates), which translates in to an approximate first dose coverage rate of 9%.
For a list of clinics, please view the Clinic Schedule. Many appointments remain available for these clinics. To book, call the Provincial Vaccine Contact Centre at 1-833-943-3900, or go online at How to book a COVID-19 vaccine appointment (ontario.ca). Appointments can also be made at participating primary care providers and pharmacies in Grey Bruce.
All GBHU vaccine clinics accommodate those five to 11 years of age with an appointment. Additionally, pediatric clinics have been specifically designed to provide a welcoming and safe environment for families to get their COVID-19 vaccine. Those administering the vaccine have experience in giving vaccines to children, and are able to provide practical ways to keep the children and their family at ease. Parents and guardians are encouraged to speak with their children about their concerns and describe what to expect at their appointment before attending the clinic. Children are welcome to bring small distractions like a favourite toy or stuffy, music, or a colouring book to make their appointment more positive. Movies will be playing in some clinics as an added distraction. The first 500 visitors to these clinics even received a fun parting gift for their bravery!
Pediatric clinics are being delivered thanks to partnerships with municipalities, school boards, volunteers, the Vaccine Task Force, and many other contributing partners
Grey Bruce Public Health extends special thanks to the GBHU’s vaccine team, led by Public Health Manager, Jennifer Rollinson. "They have developed, planned and operated these clinics, while in the midst of the Influenza vaccine roll out and while continuing to offer the COVID-19 vaccine for those over the age of 12 years — including third doses to select groups."
“In the face of a challenging pandemic, the constant change, and growing fatigue, my team has been able to rise to the occasion time after time” said Jennifer Rollinson — Public Health Manager for the Vaccine Program. “I cannot thank the team enough. Without them, this would not be possible, and the smiles that we are creating would not be there. I cannot speak highly enough about the team’s skills, professionalism, and effort and everyday I am more proud to be a part of this initiative.”
Public Health routinely evaluates services and strives to make improvements. Parents and guardians are invited to provide feedback about the clinics through an online survey. According to Grey Bruce Public Health, many parents and guardians who participated in their first Pediatric clinics have responded positively to the clinic operations, sharing statements like:
“Clinic was awesome. Movie playing, activities, rewards for kids. They were a very positive experience. Our kids came out so happy after it, even though they were nervous going in. They were in no hurry to leave after the 15 minutes were up.”
“They did an amazing job all around and the kids felt special and cared for. Where do I sign up for this clinic in 8 weeks?”
“This was quite an impressive experience. I’ve given enough immunizations as a family doctor - but as a parent the extra touches like the movie playing, the prizes, etc really made this experience a positive one for my own child. And special thanks to the physician who was lightning quick at giving the vaccine! Well done Grey Bruce Public Health!”
“Totally impressed by all of the staff. My kids were a bit anxious, but everyone was so friendly, that they quickly relaxed. The shot was over and done with before they had a chance to react. Thanks so much! We are very grateful for everyone helping to make this a positive experience, which will in turn help us with their second dose.”
“This clinic was excellent. The staff were friendly and welcoming and make my children feel comfortable. They even played a movie for the kids and gave them prizes!!! Such a cool twist on a pandemic.”
“Wonderful experience. Staff was great was my kids (even my child who doesn’t like needles). They were very excited to pick out a treat (colouring book or play doh) afterwards. Definitely didn’t expect that. The helium balloons and staff in Christmas hats was also a wonderful surprise. Made it so much easier for my kids. Thank you Public Health”
“Staff were excellent dealing with children who were nervous to receive a vaccine”
“The staff were amazing! They made sure my kids were comfortable, eased their fears, and really helped them not be afraid. This was the best vaccination appointment my kids have ever had. Hays off to the amazing work the clinic is doing.”
“Quick and easy. Staff was amazing with her, and she is not as worried for the second dose”
The public can stay up-to-date with local vaccine data by reviewing the GBHU’s Vaccine Data Overview. The Overview will soon be modified to include the number of doses given to the newly eligible group of age five to 11 year-olds and will be updated regularly.
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