RCSD schools host vaccine clinics

ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WHEC) — Doctors across the state are reporting the rate of COVID-19 pediatric cases is going up faster than in adults. Hospitalizations are up too.

So, the Rochester City School District is joining forces with the county to make those who want shots can get them. This is to allow students and others in the community to get vaccinated or boosted.

Dozens of people took advantage of schools all across the district being closed Friday to roll up their sleeves and get either their COVID-19 vaccine or booster shot. Cole Monfalcone got his at East High School which hosted the day’s walk-in clinic for the community.

"I just think if there’s anything you can do to sort of mitigate the risk for yourself, or for your friends and family, I mean why not just do it. There’s absolutely no reason not to," Monfalcone said.

School Superintendent Shaun Nelms, Ph.D., described the turnout as incredible.

"We believe that bringing services to the community as you can tell will allow individuals to come get boosted in a convenient location, but also that they’re aware of, and they feel safe at," Nelms said.

Just last week, Derrick Watson, a student at Leadership Academy of Young men died with COVID-19. The state is also reporting that almost 600 children have been hospitalized recently for the virus.

"I’m so happy that the community is taking this covid seriously, and that they’re doing what it takes to reopen schools and keep them open. Our goal is to mitigate the spread of this virus, and also minimize it as much as possible," Nelms said.

Click here, for a complete list of upcoming vaccine clinics held by the Rochester City School District.