County launches school vaccination program

San Bernardino County continues to make great progress vaccinating its residents, and recently opened opportunities for children ages 12 and up (with parental consent). More than 1,000 youth between the ages of 12-15 have been vaccinated since last Thursday, and the County recently launched a school vaccination program in partnership with local districts.

“We are very excited with our partnership with superintendents throughout the County, who helped to facilitate 1,942 vaccinations at our high schools,” said San Bernardino County's Chief Executive Officer Leonard X. Hernandez. “There’s been a lot of interest from parents and students wanting to get vaccinated before graduation ceremonies.”

Ten high schools were served last week, with another 14 scheduled for this week.

“Needles Unified School District reached out and we were able to get them connected with an event,” said Hernandez. "Any school district that's interested can contact Public Health and we'll get an event scheduled."

Mask Guidelines 

Last Thursday, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) lifted masking requirements for fully vaccinated people. “California Department of Public Health surveyed the counties and ultimately determined to keep the current mask orders," said Hernandez. "San Bernardino County advocated to follow the CDC guidelines, but at this time the state is keeping the masking guidelines as they are.” Hernandez said updated masking guidance will be available closer to June 15.

Upcoming Clinics

Hinkley Clinic Planned for May 21: A one-dose Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine clinic is planned from noon-4 p.m. May 21. The event will take place at the Hinkley Community and Senior Center, located at 35997 Mountain View Road, Hinkley. Sign up on https://myturn.ca.gov/ and put in your zip code to secure your appointment!

Oro Grande School District Clinics planned May 25 and May 27: The Oro Grande School District is partnering with County of San Bernardino Department of Public Health to host two Covid-19 vaccination clinics. The vaccine clinics will take place from 4-8 p.m. on May 25, at the Oro Grande School District (19900 National Trails Highway in Oro Grande), and on May 27, at Mojave River Academy West Victorville (12384 Palmdale Road in Victorville). The vaccine clinics are free and open to anyone 12 and older. Those between the ages of 12-17 must have a parent or guardian present. For more information, please email District Nurse Natalie Thiem or Health Services Admin Assistant Ana Raya.

Family Assistance Program Clinic on May 26: The Family Assistance Program in Victorville is holding a free COVID-19 Vaccine Clinic from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. on Wednesday, May 26. The event will include free Kona Ice for the first 200 vaccine recipients and BBQ hamburgers and hot dogs, while supplies last. Call 760-843-0701 or email jobi@familyassist.org to schedule an appointment. Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments are more efficient.