First COVID-19 vaccinations administered in Kamloops, Kelowna

The first COVID-19 vaccinations in the Interior Health region have been administered to long-term care workers in Kelowna and Kamloops.

Interior Health is celebrating a milestone in the fight against COVID-19. As part of the provincial COVID-19 immunization program, Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine has been received and is being administered to long-term care staff and physicians.

“You have no idea what this means to me,” said Charmane Lazzarotto, the first vaccine recipient in Kelowna. “As a health care aide, I care for vulnerable people every day and knowing I can protect them by preventing the spread of COVID-19 is an incredible feeling. I am so happy to be safer, feel safer, and be part of history as we fight COVID-19.”

As vaccine arrives each week, Interior Health looks forward to expanding staff clinics throughout IH.

“In Kamloops we have worked so hard, especially in long-term care, to stop the spread of COVID-19,” said Kelsey Medhurst, first vaccine recipient in Kamloops. “Having this vaccine available will help protect the most vulnerable loved ones in our lives and I encourage everyone to get one.”

Provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry also received a vaccination today.

READ MORE: Dr. Bonnie Henry gets initial dose of COVID-19 vaccine

Interior Health reminds everyone that vaccine roll-out will be a gradual process and it is very important to stay focused on observing all of the public health guidance that helps prevent the spread of COVID-19.

The health authority is reminding everyone to stay vigilant and follow COVID-19 precautions:

• Keep to your household bubbles and avoid social gatherings.
• Stay home when you are sick, and get tested if you have any symptoms consistent with COVID
• Practice physical distancing and use a mask if you cannot.
• Wash your hands often.

Testing is available for people with new or worsening COVID-19 symptoms. 

For information about vaccine be availability for individuals in care (long-term care, hospitals) and other priority populations, visit the health authority's website.

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