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H1N1 vaccination clinics continue
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Marilyn Keay had her eight-month-old twins, Chance Willis, left, and Ava Willis, receive the H1N1 vaccination at the High Prairie Health Complex Nov. 5. Keay had some concerns initially about the vaccination, but decided they should receive it.
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Mac Olsen
for South Peace News
The H1N1 vaccination clinic has resumed at the High Prairie Health Complex, with first priority being given to children ages six months to under five years, followed by pregnant women.
The clinic closed Oct. 29 and Marilyn Keay was pleased when it re-opened Nov. 5 to provide the H1N1 vaccination. She wanted to get her eight-month-old twins, Ava and Chance Willis, immunized as soon as possible.
But she was also concerned about the lack of government information.
“I wasn’t sure what was going on. They didn’t clarify what was happening,” says Keay.
She also had concerns about the vaccination, but decided to get her children immunized. They received the regular vaccination a week earlier.
Danielle Cox was undecided initially about having her daughter, Keira Laughlin, 2½, receive the H1N1 vaccination. Cox heard stories about the risks and researched the Internet and talked to health professionals as well. Ultimately, she decided Keira should be vaccinated.
Fred and Shauna Keay were also undecided initially about getting their five children vaccinated. In the end, they decided it would be good for them.
“The pros outweighed the cons,” says Shauna Keay.
“I have faith in the health care system,” says Fred Keay. “It’s recommended and it’s better to be safe than sorry.”
They had three of their children – Brooke, Dex and Sage – vaccinated and will get their two older children, Grayce and Eve, as well as themselves, vaccinated later.
Vaccination programs have also been carried out in the First Nations and Métis communities. Driftpile First Nation held their program before the cessation, says Trina Scott, a diabetic researcher and assistant for their program.
However, not every resident received the vaccinations, which disappointed her, but it’s not mandatory to get them, she adds.
The Alberta Government has been criticized for its handling of the vaccination program, as there has been a shortage of both. Across the province, there were long lineups outside clinics, with people waiting for hours in the cold at some locations, only to be told they were closed or there weren’t enough of the vaccinations available for everyone.
The government announced the cessation of the clinics Oct. 31 and devised a new strategy, giving first priority to those deemed to be most in need of the H1N1 vaccination. It includes children six months to under five years old and pregnant women. The vaccination will not be made available to others until later.
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