Hamtramck Public Schools offer free vaccines and boosters

By Charles Sercombe
Still haven’t gotten a Covid vaccine or booster?
If so, be sure to stop by the HPS Community Center Gymnasium, 11350 Charest St., on Dec. 2 or 4.
Melanie Pieknik, the Hamtramck Public School District nurse, recently announced the details of the clinics:
“The end of the year is approaching. However, the end of the pandemic is not.
“COVID-19 remains an ongoing challenge that the world has had to adjust to, and unfortunately, it’s still affecting us all. Positive COVID-19 cases are increasing across the state at the highest rate since the beginning of the pandemic, according to statewide news sources. “Following best safety practices, such as washing our hands, social distancing and wearing masks are simple and effective ways to help keep our community and our loved ones safe this holiday season.
“Hamtramck Public Schools is also providing our families with the resources they need to make informed decisions about their health. This winter, Hamtramck Public Schools (HPS) and FDR Pharmacy Sav-Mor are offering:”

• Flu vaccine for children and adults
• Pfizer pediatric COVID-19 vaccine (5 –11 years old)
• Pfizer adult COVID-19 vaccine (12 years and older)
• Pfizer booster
• Moderna adult CODID-19 vaccine (18 years and older)
• Moderna booster
“This clinic will take place on Thursday, Dec. 2, 3-7 p.m., and Saturday, Dec. 4, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the HPS Community Center Gymnasium, 11350 Charest St. Anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian to receive the vaccine.
“In addition to the vaccination clinic, HPS is also offering optional PCR COVID testing on campus for staff and students. Each school is designated a day of the week, and a parental consent form must be signed and turned into the office for students to participate.”
Testing will be held on:
• Mondays at the Early Childhood Elementary and Dickinson East Elementary
• Tuesdays at Hamtramck and Horizon High School
• Wednesdays at Dickinson West Elementary and Kosciuszko Middle School
• Thursdays at Tau Beta School, Holbrook Elementary and the HPS Central Office
“Students and staff members at Hamtramck who are feeling ill should keep a close eye on their symptoms and are encouraged to stay home.
“If they decide to come to campus to get tested, we recommend that they maintain a safe six-feet distance. COVID-19 can present symptoms similar to the common cold or flu and it’s important to understand which infection you have if you are feeling sick.
“If you’re unsure, call your doctor or local health clinic and, if necessary, arrange for more immediate testing.
“For more information regarding the vaccination clinic and/or weekly testing, contact HPS District Nurse Melanie Pieknik at mpieknik@hamtramckschools.org or (313) 454-1645.
“We remain committed to ensuring the health and safety of our school community.”