KFL&A COVID-19 Vaccination Strategy Marks One Year

Kingston, ON – Today, marks one year since the first COVID-19 vaccination was administered in the KFL&A region. With the tremendous support of multiple stakeholders and partners working together to administer vaccines, KFL&A Public Health is thrilled and grateful to share that over 90 per cent of 5 years and over have received a first dose of COVID-19 vaccine. In total, the number of vaccines administered in the region has surpassed 477,000 doses.

• Over 205,000 doses administered in mass immunization and pop-up clinics.
• Almost 165,000 doses administered by pharmacies.
• Nearly 107,000 in hospital clinics and primary care and congregate care settings.

“With almost half a million vaccinations administered in the region, we are all proud to have helped to protect our community from COVID-19,” said Dr. Piotr Oglaza, Medical Officer of Health at KFL&A Public Health.  “We have come a long way in this fight. We want to thank everyone for getting vaccinated and for partners, staff, and volunteers for all of their support in planning and implementing these vaccination clinics.”

The KFL&A region has a lot to be proud of in terms of provincial vaccination achievements, including:

• Highest rate of first dose coverage in 5 to 11 years of age.
• Highest uptake of third doses in eligible population.
• Fourth highest coverage of second doses in 12 to 17 years of age.
• Seventh highest coverage of second doses in 12 years of age and over.

KFL&A residents are strongly encouraged to continue to adhere to the enhanced provincial public health measures. We must continue to practice behaviours to slow the spread of COVID-19.

• Stay home if you have any symptoms of COVID-19.
• When eligible, get a third dose of COVID-19 vaccine in any approved combination. Most clinics offer walk in option, for more information on clinic locations and hours of operation.
• Gather virtually, if possible.
• Reduce close contacts and limit social gatherings to 5 or less people indoors. The less people who gather, the lower the risk of COVID-19 transmission.
• Mask and physical distance if gathering indoors with people from other households and when it feels right for you, especially if you or others are immunocompromised or at high-risk of severe disease or exposure to COVID-19.

For the most up to date information on COVID-19, visit www.kflaph.ca/Coronavirus or www.Ontario.ca/coronavirus.