Planning is underway to restart the school immunization program stopped in its tracks last spring by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The school-based vaccination shots were halted and many Grade 7 students missed out as schools were shut down.
About 600 students were left without the immunization.
Hastings Prince Edward Public Health began contacting students in this new school year.
Medical Officer of Health Dr. Piotr Oglaza tells Quinte News the health unit’s capacity is “limited” because of COVID-19.
“Public heath nurses are continuing to contact students who might have missed their grade 7 vaccination. We are offering catch-up immunizations,” he said.
“Our capacity is limited though and that’s because of both our involvement in the pandemic response and the reassignment.”
He says this is no longer a time when mass immunizations can be held.
“Our intention is to continue working with schools in the coming month and basically work on a plan that will allow us to help students get that catch-up immunization.”
Oglaza added, “While also recognizing and making sure we maintain all the precautions related to the COVID pandemic.”
