January 22, 2021 - The Thunder Bay District Health Unit (TBDHU) announces that the first round of vaccinations in all long-term care in homes in Thunder Bay for all eligible residents is complete, with approximately 95% of residents receiving the vaccine. This important milestone in the fight against COVID-19 was done in partnership with the local Long-Term Care Homes and the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre (TBRHSC).
“To have the first round of vaccinations completed at these long-term care homes is a significant achievement. The protection of long-term care homes is an important first priority, as we have seen the impact this virus has had in these settings,” said Dr. Janet DeMille, Medical Officer of Health, TBDHU. “I’d like to thank all those that contributed to this effort, particularly the staff of the long-term care homes that have been working so hard throughout this whole pandemic, and with the vaccine delivery.”
While this is a major step in protecting long-term care homes, COVID-19 is here and it takes time for the immune response to develop. Long-term care homes must continue to implement all the infection prevention and control measures to keep residents, staff and essential care providers safe.
Planning is already underway for the next phase of vaccine implementation in long-term care homes and other setting with seniors. This includes preparations for administering the second dose and planning for the distribution of vaccine to long-term care homes in the District. Following that, vaccine is expected to be distributed to other congregate living settings, depending on supply.
TBDHU encourages all residents to follow all public health measures to protect the health of individuals and our health system. These include:
- Stay home as much as possible
- Get together only with the people in your household; individuals who live alone may consider joining one other household.
- Limit trips outside the home to essential reasons (work, grocery/pharmacy shopping, medical appointments). It is also ok to go outside to get some exercise such going for a walk, maintaining physical distancing from anyone not a part of your immediate household
- Work from home if possible
As usual, if you get any COVID-19 symptoms, even mild ones, isolate immediately and arrange to get tested at your local assessment centre.
Visit the TBDHU Website for more information or contact TBDHU at (807) 625-5900 or toll-free: 1-888-294-6630.
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For more information - Health Unit Media: news@tbdhu.com.