GO VAXX mobile clinics administer more than 10K COVID jabs
Three vaccine GO buses have been making their way across southern Ontario to get vaccines in arms.
Oct 18, 2021
Green and white retrofitted GO buses – dubbed ‘GO-VAXX’ buses – have been on the road since the summer, stopping in communities to allow for walk-in, no appointment necessary access to first and second Pfizer vaccine shots.
There have also been third doses for qualified individuals, aged 12 and older.
GO Bear is shown outside one of the VAXX buses. (Metrolinx photo)
This initiative between Metrolinx, the Ministry of the Solicitor General, and Public Health Units, recently hit a major milestone with 10,000 doses administered.
“Metrolinx is pleased to be a partner in this innovative and successful approach linking vaccination and transit,” said Phil Verster, Metrolinx President and CEO. “The retrofitted GO-VAXX buses, proudly operated by our drivers, have been safely rolling into communities where vaccines are needed, playing an important role in keeping everyone safe and protected.”
The inside of the GO-VAXX bus. (Metrolinx photo)
The initiative started out with two GO-VAXX buses and grew to three in September to match demand for the clinic on wheels. To date, the buses, which are fully accessible, have brought more than 148 clinics to various locations, including shopping malls, fairs, sporting events, and post-secondary institutions. Of the more than10,000 doses administered, 48 per cent were first doses.
“We are happy to be part of the GO-VAXX initiative to get vaccines in arms, and excited for our drivers to part of this milestone,” said Rob Cormier, president of Amalgamated Transit Union Local 1587. “Our bus drivers were eager to help get the GO-VAXX buses rolling, and to play an integral role in helping in the fight against COVID-19.”
What you need to know:
- Offering Pfizer vaccine only while supplies last
- No appointment necessary
- Available to anyone age 12 or older
- First or second doses available (third doses for qualified individuals as well)
The mobile vaccination clinics are in addition to the more than 40 safety measures put in place on GO Transit and UP Express to keep both staff and customers safe.
The GO-VAXX mobile vaccine clinics will continue to operate in the months ahead, and the schedule – which can be found here – is updated weekly.
