Preparing for a School-Located COVID-19 Vaccination Clinic

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Epidemiology
• Health Policy

Background:

• School-located vaccination events (SLVE) have historically reduced vaccine-preventable diseases.
• Schools offer accessible venues to reach diverse student populations.
• School nurses are trusted health resources within educational communities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the process school nurses used to develop SLVE plans during a pandemic.
• To emphasize the critical role of school nurses in mass vaccination efforts.
• To provide a framework for future pandemic preparedness.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative description of SLVE planning processes.
• Focus on partnerships within and outside the school setting.
• Emphasis on research, planning, and information dissemination.

Main Results:

• School nurses initiated and led the development of SLVE plans.
• Collaboration with community partners was essential for success.
• Education on vaccine impact on attendance was a key component.

Conclusions:

• School nurses are pivotal in organizing and executing SLVE.
• SLVE planning requires robust community and intra-school partnerships.
• Effective SLVE strategies are vital for public health during pandemics.