The Nawash Health Centre, assisted by the Grey Bruce Public Health Unit, held Neyaashiinigmiing’s first large-scale COVID-19 vaccination clinic in Neyaashiinigmiing on February 24. The clinic, held at the Kikendaasogamig Elementary School provided 150 older Neyaashiinigmiing residents with their first dose of the 2-dose Pfizer vaccine. The clinic ran smoothly with minimal waiting and line-ups, as each vaccination was scheduled by appointment with the Health Centre.

IMPORTANT: The next clinic will be held on Wednesday, March 3, 2021, again at the Kikendaasogamig Elementary School. Any adult resident, over 16 years old, who has not yet received the first dose of COVID-19 vaccine, is asked to make an appointment to be vaccinated at the upcoming clinic. Call the Nawash Health Centre at 519-534-0373 during business hours to schedule your vaccination.

The goal of our vaccination program is to immunize 75% of the adult population of the community. At 75%-80% immunization, we will achieve what is called “herd immunity”, when enough people are immune to avoid a dangerous outbreak spreading through the community. Herd immunity is the first step towards reclaiming our normal lives back from the pandemic. Herd immunity will not only protect those who are vaccinated, but also those that can’t get a vaccine for other health reasons. For your safety, for the community’s safety, for those who are vulnerable, schedule your vaccination today.

We will hold additional clinics to administer the second dose of vaccine once everyone who is going to be vaccinated has received the first dose. The second dose can be administered anytime between 28 days and 2 months after the first dose. We will ensure that everybody who receives the first dose will also receive the second dose within the recommended window.

We are concerned for our off-reserve members as well. The Nawash Health Centre is in the process of organizing a vaccination clinic specifically for off-reserve members, to be held in Owen Sound. We hope to have more information to share about the off-reserve vaccination clinic in the next few days.

Even if you have received a first COVID-19 vaccination, you do not have full immunity to COVID-19. All community members are asked to continue to observe pandemic protocols until further notice.

• Wear a mask outside your home.
• Wash your hands frequently.
• Watch your distance and stay 2 meters away from people you don’t live with.