Our dental professionals at Dental Image Therapy Centres have joined Manitoba’s COVID-19 Vaccine Administration Team to protect all vulnerable Manitobans from the outbreak since April of this year.
The Province of Manitoba continues to make steady progress in the largest immunization campaign in its history. As the province’s first and second dose rate continues to grow, teams of people are needed to make this historic campaign a success.
Dental Image Therapy Centres’ very own dental professionals: Dr. Stella Kowarski, Dr. Chris Bao, Cheryl Mayers, Eunice Rowan, Lisa Eccles, May DeGuzman, Paula Larocque and Navi Deol responded to the government’s request to dental professionals across the province to join the team of vaccinators and support the fight against COVID-19.
“We volunteered because we want to be part of getting our community safe and back to a new normal,” said Cheryl Mayers. “Everyone who is working at the vaccine clinics are all amazing to work with, and are great with everyone who walks in to get vaccinated.”
Our team took approximately nine hours to complete their training on vaccine administration policies and procedures to effectively administer the vaccines safely. Through training, they familiarized themselves with both the Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines and received guidance for vaccine storage, handling, preparation, and administration for each vaccine product.
“Training was thorough and informative,” Lisa Eccles shared. “I received all the information and learned the proper techniques to correctly administer the vaccines as well as answer any questions people may ask about them. Like the dental clinic, we want to make sure people are comfortable when they come in and see us. There seems to be an equal amount of fear from going to the dentist and getting vaccinated.”
You can expect to see some of our dental staff at various Winnipeg immunization clinics such as the RBC Convention Centre at 375 York Avenue and the Winnipeg Soccer Federation North at 770 Leila Ave.
Currently, anyone aged 12 years and over is eligible to book their first or second dose vaccine appointment. To book a second dose, individuals must have received their first dose and waited at least 28 days to be eligible.
“The process is very smooth and easy to follow! Just come with your consent form filled out along with your ID and health card. We will take care of the rest. If you happen to forget your form, don’t worry, there are extras,” said Paula Larocque. “When you get here, don’t hesitate to ask any questions. We’re always happy to answer them.”
For further information about eligibility, check out: https://www.gov.mb.ca/covid19/vaccine/eligibility-criteria.html.
So far, more than 1.3 million doses have been administered to Manitobans. Like all vaccines, Health Canada has reviewed the safety and effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines throughout the country. As well, the Canadian Dental Association trusts that vaccination is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread and reduce the impact of infectious diseases.
“Working at the vaccine clinic is very rewarding. Being part of the national effort to battle this pandemic is something I will remember forever,” said Eunice Rowan. “So don’t hold out on getting your vaccine - the best one to get is the one that’s available to you!”
Even after vaccination, it’s crucial to continue to:
“It’s incredibly important that you continue to follow current social distancing guidelines even after your first dose,” May DeGuzman explained. “Partial immunity doesn’t kick in until two weeks after the first dose, and full immunity is only developed two weeks after the second dose.”
Our vaccinators are all continuing to treat patients at Dental Image Therapy Centres as usual. When you come in for your appointment, let them know what great work they’ve been doing at Winnipeg's vaccination clinics! We encourage everyone to get their COVID-19 vaccine as soon as it's available to you.
You can find more information about the Province of Manitoba’s vaccination program at: https://www.gov.mb.ca/covid19/vaccine/index.html.
Maybe it's time for your and your family's regular checkup and cleaning, you have a toothache or you need to get your treatment plan going - whatever the reason, we're here to help you get your confident smile. Whether you're a new patient or a returning friend, we can't wait to see you at your next appointment at either of our Winnipeg clinics!
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