No wasted time booking and travelling to appointments. We are bringing vaccines to where kids are already congregating
A schools-based approach would be EQUITABLE
Getting a vaccine appointment wouldn’t depend on whether you can take time off work, are internet savvy, or speak English
Crucially, we should prioritize schools in hot spots, so vaccines go first to those who would benefit most
I’ve heard some people question the feasibility—but I think we have the human resource and logistical power. After all, we brought vaccines to long term care, retirement homes and shelters. We can do this too.
We’ll need lots of opportunities to answer questions eg using schools-based town halls and community ambassadors. We’ll also need the full support of schools and school boards eg to pre-consent
We’ll need other avenues for some families including pharmacies, primary care, and community clinics eg to ensure we can accommodate kids with special needs
But our major focus should be getting #CovidVaccines to every single school in the province. It will help get us one step closer to ending the pandemic
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Like many parents, I'm struggling to understand why the Ontario government is so strongly against using rapid testing to prevent the spread of #covid in schools.
THREAD 🧵
Is it because the tests are in low supply or too expensive to purchase?
No. My understanding is the feds are purchasing and distributing the rapid tests to provinces
Is it because we don't have the person-power to package/distribute the kits and interpret/action the results?
No. Even if PHUs are stretched, it seems like there are many eager community volunteers
I want to start by acknowledging the confusion and frustration that the latest NACI statement has caused those who got the AZ vaccine—and the pharmacists and primary care clinicians supporting them
As I write, I know many are on the phone rescheduling appts
A few thoughts 🧵1/
NACI has said that an mRNA vaccine is preferred as the 2nd dose for those who received AZ for their 1st
They also reassure folks who got AZx2 that they have very good protection against severe death and hospitalization 2/
Myocarditis after vaccination has been noted
-more commonly with 2nd dose
-usually within a few days after vaccination
-mostly in males, 16+ or older
3. What should you look out for?
Contact your doctor if, within a few days of receiving the vaccine, you or child have
-chest pain
-shortness of breath
-palpitations (fluttering or fast-beating or pounding heart)