By SDCN Editor
San Ysidro, CA–Southwestern College Monday will collaborate with San Ysidro Health to provide students with free COVID-19 vaccines and other essential health services.
San Ysidro Health will offer Southwestern College students Pfizer or one Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccines through a Care on-site clinic, and Personal Protective Equipment, including face masks, to increase student vaccination rates and awareness. Students will also have access to free HIV testing. The goal of the collaboration is to link Southwestern College community members to health and social support services.
Among those currently identified as having the COVID-19 variant of the Delta virus, the vast majority have not yet been vaccinated. Latinos and other communities of color, who comprise the majority of Southwestern College’s populace, also remain woefully low on vaccination rates.
The vaccination rate in the United States currently stands at 69.8%. Those identifying as Hispanic or Latino are at 29.8%. This has led to California Governor Gavin Newsom recently issuing mandates for vaccinations and indoor facial coverings, according to the Health and Human Services Association.
“We have often said our top priority is the health and well-being of each Southwestern College community member,” said Superintendent/President Dr,. Mark Sanchez. “This is a literal example of doing what we can to protect the health and safety of our students. To engage with such an important organization as San Ysidro Health is indicative of the power of partnerships, people and college promise.”
“We are excited to partner with Southwestern College in vaccinating this key demographic of young adults as many have hesitated for several reasons,” said Kevin Mattson, President and CEO of San Ysidro Health. “Having San Ysidro Health medical experts on hand to answer COVID vaccine questions in this well-known, accessible and convenient location while administering our no-cost vaccinations will eliminate many barriers for students. This in turn, will allow students, teachers and staff to start the school year protected and healthy and for that we are all grateful.”
