Right now, more than 45-percent of Lincoln County’s population has gotten at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.
Fewer than 350 teens under the of 18 have gotten the COVID-19 vaccine in Lincoln County.
The County Health Department is hoping the Youth Night Vaccination Clinic Thursday night will help bring that number up.
It’s with the Pfizer Vaccine, which is the only one approved for 12- to 15-year-olds.
It means that teens can get their first shot now, their second shot in August, and have full immunity by the time school starts.
“We’re just trying to do what we can to help our community enjoy the start of school which they probably don’t want to be thinking about just yet, but we are,” said Lincoln County Public Health Nurse Jennifer Johnson.
She said being in school is essential to kids learning and getting a vaccine is good way to make sure they stay healthy, especially with no vaccine available to those under 12.
“School is a priority, and we want kids to be in school and learning and having fun with their friends,” said Johnson.
The Youth Night Clinic is being held at the Lincoln County Health Department in Merrill, 601 N Sales St., Merrill, WI 54452.
You can pre-register or show up.
Those under 18 need to have a parent or guardian with them to receive a shot.
While the event is meant to encourage teens to get vaccinated, Johnson said they’ll vaccinate any adults that want to get it as well.
“We know it works to prevent the spread of disease,” said Johnson.
Johnson also recognizes there’s a lot of information out there about the COVID-19 vaccines.
She welcomes anyone to call the health department or their medical provider to get their questions answered.
“In general in Lincoln County, we’re kind of getting to a slow point where everyone who’s really wanted it and was sure about the vaccine has gotten it and now some people are thinking a little bit more about it and kind of squeaking in,” said Johnson.
The Youth Night Clinic is from 4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. The second dose would be scheduled for August 12th.
You can call the health department with any questions, 715-536-0307.
