Clinic at University of Toronto Mississauga praised for vaccinating large percentage of city’s population

The University of Toronto Mississauga (UTM) racked up impressive numbers during the five months when it was turned into one of Peel Region’s mass vaccination sites.

During its peak, UTM delivered 5,000 doses of the COVID-19 vaccine each day to residents and workers in Mississauga.

In total, the university inoculated 335,000 people…which would amount to about half the population of Mississauga.

As well as the trained medical personnel, much of the work was carried out by volunteers – many of whom were students and staff – who assisted in setting up the site, answered questions, guided patients and generally did almost everything except jab needles into arms.

“For months, we’ve fought this together,” said  Dr. Maithy Tran, site clinic lead said as the clinic closed down. “It’s now time for us to step back. We’ve all done a great job and can be proud of what we’ve accomplished for the community.”

Uniquely equipped to support the mass vaccination campaign, UTM proved valuable because it was able to supply specialized freezers, ones that are usually used for scientific research, to safely store the vaccines. As well, the location proved advantageous because it is easy to reach by both public transit and car and had plenty of free parking available.

Most of all, UTM received accolades for its efficiency of operation and making the experience easy for those with apprehensions; all the while doing so without a lot of red tape.

As one long-time resident put it after receiving a second dose: “Even though it can appear somewhat isolated, UTM has really stepped-up during the pandemic and has proven to be an important part of the Mississauga community.”