High schoolers to be offered COVID vaccine

The Lenowisco Health District will offer the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine to students age 16 and older April 28 at Wise County high schools.

Parents and guardians were notified in a letter April 16.

Vaccinations will take place at Union High at 9 a.m., the alternative education center at 9:30 a.m., Central High at 10:45 a.m. and Eastside High at 1 p.m.

Pfizer provides a two-dose vaccination. Two weeks after getting the second dose, the person is considered fully vaccinated.

Once a person is fully vaccinated, that person does not have to quarantine if exposed to the virus.

“It is important for those 16 and older to be vaccinated to help prevent the spread of the virus in schools, sports, and other extracurricular activities,” the letter notes. “Wearing masks, social distancing, washing hands help reduce the spread, and now receiving the COVID-19 vaccine is an important tool to help prevent the spread of disease.”