Vaccinations in our region have flatlined: while 81 per cent of us got two doses last year, or a couple of years ago, only 17 per cent of residents age five and over have gotten their boosters.

New vaccines, updated to protect against the most recent Covid variants, are available.

“It is important,” said Dawn Calnan-Kerr, a Registered Nurse with the Prince Edward Family Health Team, “that people understand that a vaccine is not forever. It is not the number of doses you’ve had, but the frequency. A booster is needed every six months, or six months after an infection.”

The slow uptake may reflect changes in the messaging about vaccination. Public Health alone is now in charge, and its focus is on making sure vulnerable populations (the elderly, or those with a history of lung conditions) are getting vaccinated.

Ms. Calnan-Kerr also advised that those in good health who have contact with the vulnerable also need protect them and themselves by vaccination. In the County, the ratio of vulnerable populations is high.

“It’s high season. If you’re feeling unwell, stay home. Masking, washing hands and avoiding people at risk is appropriate if you’re feeling sick.”

Through their Coordinated Care program, the PEFHT making sure that people who face challenges getting out can get vaccines through focused clinics or even home visits.

Local pharmacies have both Flu and Covid vaccines on hand, available either by appointment or walk-in (call ahead). For further information, including booking appointments at local clinics in Belleville, see the HPEPH Vaccine info page: https://www.hpepublichealth.ca/vaccine-booking/. Getting both shots at once is completely safe.

Barinder Gill, Executive Director of the PEFHT worried that internet searches can present misinformation about vaccines. He encourages people to look for credible sources to learn about vaccines and infections. Generally, non-commercial sites ending in .edu, .org, .ca, or .gov are reliable. Local information is available at https://www.pefht.ca/covid-cold-flu.php.

The PEFHT is reopening its Covid, cold and flu care clinics for people with symptoms of COVID-19, or of strep, bronchitis, pneumonia, ear infection, cold or flu, sinus infection, vomiting, or diarrhea and therefore unable to see a primary care provider, or otherwise in need. Clinics are every Thursday (except December 28) from 5 p.m. – 8 p.m. in Suite 1 at 35 Bridge St. in Picton. Book an appointment by calling 613 476-0400 ext. 201.

“Every little bit helps” said Ms. Calnan-Ker. Each individual who decides to get the booster is helping to make sure this one is a safe and healthy winter season for all. #SpreadJoyNotGerms, as HPEPH recently put it.