Clinics will be scheduled regularly from now through March in Melfort. (Submitted photo/Saskatchewan Health Authority)

By Rachel May

Stick it to COVID

Saskatchewan Health Authority extends contact with the Kerry Vickar Centre for vaccine clinics

Dec 16, 2021 | 9:00 AM

Residents of Melfort can plan to roll up their sleeves into the new year with the help of extended vaccine clinics.

In an effort to provide more vaccinations, the Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) is extending its contract with the Kerry Vickar Centre.

Brent Lutz, director of Development, Planning and Community Relations for the City of Melfort, said that there will be no change operationally.

“They will continue to operate from the Affinity Room and carry out their clinics as they schedule them from now until the end of March,” Lutz told northeastNOW. “They have great success in the community and that is certainly due to the hard work of the health-care workers and also it’s helpful to have it in such a convenient location.”

With some people now eligible for their booster shot, people in the northeast can book an appointment for the vaccine clinic through the SHA website.

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Dr. Mohammad Khan, SHA Medical Health Officer, said they are hoping to continue to see vaccination rates rise.

“The clinics from five to twelve year olds are going well. We are emphasizing that age group but if adults fit into the criteria for the booster dose, they can also visit the clinic.”

People in the northeast can book an appointment for the vaccine clinic through the SHA website.

“It is necessary because, as the name suggests, it gives that boost to our immune system to become more effective against the virus,” Khan added. “We have seen in studies that people who have the booster dose had more protection against the virus.”

Residents are encouraged to get the same booster shot as their previous vaccines. Residents are able to receive a different mRNA vaccine if they are unable to get their original vaccine type.

For those who are sceptical about the vaccine, Khan offers words of wisdom and encouragement.

“Look at the history of vaccine-preventable diseases. We seldom see these diseases in our country because of vaccinations.”

Khan said he often hears people asking why they should get the vaccine if they can still get COVID-19.

“What I ask them is, what is the use of a seatbelt while driving? You put on your seatbelt, follow the rules of driving and god forbid you are in an accident you will be safer than without the seatbelt.”

By following all public health measures such as masks, avoiding big gatherings, washing hands frequently, following social distancing and staying at home when sick, Khan said we drastically decrease our likelihood of contracting COVID-19.

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Rachel.May@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @RachelMayFM