Starting today (July 22), Island Health will make it easier for people 12 and older to get their first dose of COVID-19 vaccine by taking its custom Vax Van to spots across Vancouver Island.
To help ensure everyone eligible has the opportunity to get their first dose, the Vax Van will visit popular parks, beaches, shopping destinations and events, providing on-the-spot first dose vaccination with no appointment required.
“The sun is out and people are active, so we are hitting the road to meet them where they are,” said Dr. Mike Benusic, medical health officer for Island Health. “Immunization opportunities like this will help us to reach as many young and unvaccinated people as we can before school goes back in session and people move indoors in the fall.”
The van will make stops in Cobble Hill and Duncan, before making its way to Nanaimo, where it will set up in Maffeo Sutton Park, Chase River Market Place Country Grocer and Westwood Lake.
The Vax Van will also visit Port Alberni, Oceanside, the Comox Valley, Campbell River, Langford and Sooke in the coming weeks. Island Health said a detailed schedule will be updated on its website and publicized locally as dates and locations are confirmed.
Those attending Vax Van clinics are advised to stay hydrated and have something to eat before getting vaccinated, if possible. Although no appointment is required for first doses at any clinic, you can save time by registering in advance at: getvaccinated.gov.bc.ca. Anyone in need of a second dose of vaccine is advised to make an appointment at their nearest mass immunization clinic.
