Governor Gretchen Whitmer, and her daughter, visited Grand Rapids’ West Michigan Vaccine Clinic at DeVos Place receiving their second doses of the Pfizer vaccine. Receiving their first dose were Grand Rapids Public High School students encouraging peers also get vaccinated.
The B.1.1.7. COVID-19 variant is spreading among young people.
“That’s why we are encouraging young people, as well as adults, in underserved communities to seriously consider scheduling appointments to receive vaccinations.”
Dr. Leadriane Roby is Superintendent of Grand Rapids Public Schools. With 28-percent of 16 to 19-year olds vaccinated in Kent, Ottawa, Allegan and Kalamazoo counties, Dr. Roby explains an effort is underway improving those numbers.
Six GRPS teenagers representing the Michigan COVID-19 Student Ambassador Volunteer Recruitment campaign rolled up their sleeves receiving the Pfizer vaccine encouraging friends and classmates follow their lead.
“I’d say a majority of my class probably hasn’t got it, but I hope this, me coming out and here and getting mine in front of everybody helps motivate them to get it and do their part."
Randell Jones is a senior at Ottawa Hills High School.
“When we all do our part, we prosper. That’s something my coaches have always taught me. So, I try to live by it."
The Pfizer vaccine is approved for 16 and 17-year olds requiring an accompanying legal guardian.