Swine flu clinics moved to lower Centennial Hall
Email
Print
Letter to Editor
Share
The swine flu vaccinations clinics in Lake Cowichan have been moved to lower Centennial Hall to accommodate an increase in interest.
The vaccination clinic started on October 26 at the Kaatza Health Unit and things weren’t that busy, but by Wednesday things got hectic.
For Darol Smith, who tried to get a vaccination but couldn’t wait around, said he’s glad they moved the clinics to the hall. He said his wife was number 69 and he was number 71, but they had only called number 21.
“It was terrible,” said Smith. “People were lined up outside. It was a gong show, so we left.”
He said he was also concerned about how many people were in the small waiting room, suggesting that it probably increased the risk of the swine flu spreading.
“It’s great they’ve moved it to Centennial Hall, but they should have planned that from the start,” said Smith, who added that he will probably go back on Wednesday. “I think it’s a wake up call.”
No one from the Kaatza Health Unit was available for comment on Monday. More swine flu vaccination clinics have also been added, all in lower Centennial Hall. The upcoming clinics will be as follows:
• November 4 — 9 a.m.-11:30 a.m.
• November 10 — 1 p.m.-5 p.m.
• November 17 — 1 p.m.-4 p.m.
• November 25 - 1 p.m.-6 p.m.
The Vancouver Island Health Authority (VIHA) said it is more stringently enforcing eligibility screening at H1N1 flu clinics, including those in Lake Cowichan, to ensure those in the high risk groups get their shots first.
The high-risk groups who have priority include those under 65 years with chronic health conditions such as asthma or diabetes and pregnant women (over 20 weeks).
Public health staff are urging those who are coming to the clinics to wear short or loose sleeves to help speed up the delivery of the vaccine.
A comprehensive booklet on H1N1 preparedness titled Be Prepared Be Well is also available online and includes valuable information, such as protecting yourself and your family against the virus, symptoms to look for and self-care. Visit www.viha.ca/h1n1.
v2
