TORONTO — COVID-19 vaccination clinics will be established in or near Ontario schools before the start of the new school year.
The announcement was made Monday by Education Minister Stephen Lecce.
The government is working out the details with local public health units and school boards.
As of Aug. 15, more than 69 per cent of Ontario youth from 12 to 17 have already received a first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, and 56 per cent are fully vaccinated.
The announcement stated that the vaccine will only be given at the school-focused clinics if informed consent is received from the individual, including eligible students, and as long as they have the capability to make this decision.
"Health care providers, the school and families must respect a young person's decision regarding vaccination," the government said.
The clinics will be aimed at youth, their families and education staff who have not yet received a first or second dose.
Dr. Kieran Moore, Ontario's Chief Medical Officer of Health, said having vaccination clinics at schools will make it more convenient for students to receive the vaccine in a familiar and comfortable environment.
The clinics may operate before, during or after school hours, and are expected to run before school starts and during the first few weeks of the new term.
The Thunder Bay District Health Unit said details on any school-related immunization clinics will be provided as the information becomes available.
It issued the following statement in response to an inquiry from TBNewswatch:
