Region of Waterloo Public Health increasing focus on vaccine accessibility, equity

As a triple threat of COVID-19, RSV, and the flu rages on, Region of Waterloo Public Health is trying to make sure residents don't have trouble getting vaccines.

At Wednesday's Board of Health Meeting, Jessie Johal, the acting director of COVID-19 response said public health put more emphasis on connecting with marginalized and equity-seeking groups this week.

“As well as, any priority populations that are having, or verbalized issues with access. That includes our older communities, as well as Indigenous groups, as well as racialized, and other communities,” she said.

Johal added these efforts will continue with stronger focus next month. 

Public health has used mobile clinics in different neighbourhood groups.

Johal said within the last six weeks, the vaccine bus reached 18 neighbourhoods, most of which are rural and with equity-seeking groups. 

But while local health officials urge residents to keep up to date with vaccines, it appears most have been reluctant to do so.

Johal noted only 16.9 per cent of Waterloo Region residents have received a fall COVID booster dose, which is similar to provincial rates.

A COVID booster dose is recommended three to six months following a previous dose.

Public health is also working to increase vaccine uptake among children ages five and up using the neighbourhood strategy, as well as other avenues like school-based partners. 

This age group will become eligible for bivalent doses in Ontario starting December 21.