By Kathy Chouteau
Starting next week, certain Contra Costa County public school campuses will host free COVID-19 vaccine clinics for students ages 12 and over and other community members. Contra Costa Health Services (CCHS) and Kaiser Permanente will team up with the Contra Costa Office of Education and several school districts to begin rolling out mobile vaccine clinics to schools countywide Tues., May 18.
According to CCHS, mobile clinics will visit new campuses weekly, returning later to administer second-dose appointments. While not all school campuses will offer vaccines, those that will have them will welcome anyone who is eligible, including students from other schools, families and community members.
Patients younger than 18 require consent from a parent or guardian to receive a vaccination, according to CCHS. Patients in this age-group will be receiving the Pfizer vaccine. Organizers are working with school campuses to avoid conflicts with on-site education or graduation ceremonies.
“The goal is to help families that might not otherwise have the opportunity to get a free vaccine at a convenient location where they feel safe—the neighborhood school,” said Diane Burgis, chair of the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors. “But please do not wait. If you need a vaccine, we have a clinic in your area right now waiting for you.”
Contra Costa County vaccine clinics no longer require appointments. However, those wanting appointments can schedule them on the CCHS appointment page or by calling 1-833-829-2626.
Here’s the rundown on local vaccine clinics currently scheduled from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on the dates indicated: May 25-29: Pinole Valley High (Pinole); June 1-5: Kennedy High (Richmond); June 8-12: De Anza High (Richmond); June 15-19: Pinole Valley High (Pinole); June 22-26: Kennedy High (Richmond); and June 29-July 3: De Anza High (Richmond).
For more info, visit CCHS here.
