While COVID-19 vaccination clinics continue to run across the North, it’s important to pause and celebrate the milestones that so many people in our communities have worked to achieve. Fort St. John is no exception, as they have just reached a vaccination rate of 80 per cent for first doses for those 12 years and older – an important achievement and a provincially set target!
We’ve come a long way
At the beginning of October, Fort St. John was sitting at a rate of only 71 per cent for first doses and 58 per cent for second doses. Thanks to the efforts of clinic staff, volunteers, and First Nations Health Authority; the flexibility of clinic hours and locations; the support of various community organizations; and the community members who sought out their vaccinations, they have now achieved an 80 per cent rate for first doses and 73 per cent for second doses – a dramatic shift in only two months’ time.
“I am very humbled and thankful for the support we continue to receive months later in order to reach this milestone,” said Sherry Sawka, NH manager of community services in Fort St. John.
The work of many
Many people and organizations had a hand in this success. From providing volunteers, to donating space and signage for clinics, to running mobile clinics and supporting clinic promotions, it was truly a team effort.
“I have to extend my gratitude to our local team leads and their teams…the staff has been going over and above, working very hard to provide opportunities for our community to be vaccinated to reach this goal,” said Vikki MacLean, NH coordinator of pandemic response in Northeast BC.
Additional thanks go out to staff from the BC Centre for Disease Control, the Canadian Red Cross, local volunteers, Paladin Security, Pacific Destinations Services (for mobile clinic support), the City of Fort St. John, CT Reit, Cordova Oilfield Services Ltd., Systems by Trail, Driving Force, K-Mac Signs & Graphics, and Signature Sign Line Ltd.
What happens now?
The goal is still to continue to vaccinate as many people as possible, particularly those who may now feel ready to receive their first and second doses. At the same time, we are pleased to begin providing vaccines for children aged 5 to 11, as well as booster doses for those eligible.
Find more information on clinic availability in Fort St. John and across the region.
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