Earlier on Tuesday, we saw Dr. Bonnie Henry getting a Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine, turns out that was about the same time that the first vaccine was administered in Kelowna as well.
“Interior Health is celebrating a milestone in the fight against COVID-19, as the first vaccinations have occurred in Kelowna and Kamloops,” states a news release from Interior Health.
“You have no idea what this means to me,” said Charmane Lazzarotto, 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,” said Interior Health, adding the roll-out will be a gradual process and it is important to stay focused on observing all of the public health guidance that helps prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Everyone in all communities should remain vigilant in following 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 (see below).
- 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. Seek a test immediately if you have one or more of these key symptoms:
- Fever and chills
- Cough
- Loss of sense of taste or smell
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
Seek a test if you have two or more of the following symptoms for more than 24 hours, and they are not related to any other pre-existing conditions:
- Sore throat
- Loss of appetite
- Extreme fatigue or tiredness
- Headache
- Body aches (muscles and joints aching)
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea
