Beginning today, Island Health is making it easier than ever for people aged 12 and over to get their first dose of COVID-19 vaccine, by bringing our custom Vax Van to popular destinations across Vancouver Island.
“The sun is out and people are active, so we are hitting the road to meet them where they are,” said Dr. Mike Benusic, Medical Health Officer for Island Health. “Immunization opportunities like this will help us to reach as many young and unvaccinated people as we can before school goes back in session and people move indoors in the fall.”
The summer months are busy, and taking time out to get a COVID-19 vaccine can be hard to fit in with life’s many other plans. To help ensure every eligible individual has the opportunity to get their first dose, the Vax Van will visit popular parks, beaches, shopping destinations and events, providing on-the-spot first dose vaccination – no appointment required.
The first stops on the Vax Van tour are:
| Town | Location | Date/Time |
|
Cobble Hill |
Country Grocer parking lot, 1400 Cowichan Bay Rd. | July 22, 2 p.m. - 7 p.m. |
|
Duncan |
Canadian Tire parking lot, 2929 Green Rd. | July 23, 2 p.m. - 7 p.m. |
|
Nanaimo |
Maffeo Sutton Park | July 25, 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. |
|
Nanaimo |
Chase River Market Place Country Grocer, 82 Twelfth St. | July 26, 2 p.m. - 7 p.m. |
|
Nanaimo |
Westwood Lake | July 27, 2 p.m. - 7 p.m. |
In the weeks ahead, the Vax Van will also visit Port Alberni, Oceanside, Comox Valley, Campbell River, Langford and Sooke. A detailed schedule will be updated on Island Health’s website and publicized locally as we confirm dates and locations.
Those attending Vax Van clinics are advised to stay hydrated and have something to eat before getting vaccinated, if possible. Although no appointment is required for first doses at any clinic, you can save time by registering in advance at: Getvaccinated.gov.bc.ca.
Not in a location where the Vax Van will be visiting? Island Health is offering first dose walk-in immunizations at all of our community clinics, for anyone 12 years and older.
Please note that the Vax Van is only for first doses. Anyone in need of a second dose of vaccine is advised to make an appointment at their nearest mass immunization clinic.
For more information about our vaccine roll-out and COVID-19, visit www.islandhealth.ca.