SAUGUS ― The VaxBus will be returning to the town’s middle-high school complex the Saturday after Thanksgiving.
Superintendent of Schools Erin McMahon announced the vaccination bus will be up from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the school’s parking lot. The VaxBus was a huge success during its most recent visit on Nov. 6, and the town responded in kind with increased rates.
“The community asked for another clinic so we are pleased to be able to offer this service,’’ McMahon said. “Whether you’re looking for a first or second dose or a booster, this is a convenient way to get vaccinated.’’
During the October VaxBus visit, 33 Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccinations were distributed, and during the Nov. 6 visit 131 doses were administered, including 87 pediatric doses and 44 boosters. All those who received first shots at the Nov. 6 clinic will be eligible for a second dose at the clinic on Nov. 27.
There will be up to 300 Pfizer doses, including pediatric and adult boosters, available at the next VaxBus visit. Everyone 5 years of age and older is now eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommended the vaccine for this age group this week, which followed FDA authorization on Oct. 29.
The Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for children ages 5 through 11 is administered in two doses, three weeks apart. It is a lower dose (10 micrograms) than vaccines used for individuals 12 years of age and older (30 micrograms).
McMahon encouraged families to take advantage of this convenient opportunity to get vaccinated.
“Our top priority this year is to keep students and staff safe and in school,’’ the superintendent said.
The Saugus school district would like residents to know that the COVID vaccine is free for all, and no ID or insurance is needed to be vaccinated. Individuals can get vaccinated even if they are of undocumented status. Getting a vaccine will not impact a family’s immigration status.
