HSE Media Release
Community Healthcare Organisation Area 1 (Cavan, Donegal, Leitrim, Monaghan and Sligo)
‘Super’ times at Cavan COVID -19 Vaccination Centre
If you go down to Cavan CVC today, you’re in for a big surprise. Vaccinators have thrown aside their scrubs to reveal the ‘superheroes’ beneath.
Children in the 5-11 year old age category may get their vaccine from Spiderman/Spiderwoman, Superman, Professor McGonnigle or even Bananaman!
In order to make the vaccination experience a positive one, staff at the centre are dressing up in the costumes to ensure children have a fun time while at Cavan CVC. It is one of a number of initiatives at the centre which also include a special wishing tree created by local artist Heather Brett. Each time a child is vaccinated they are given a ribbon which they tie to the tree.
Children are also given a certificate of achievement and the opportunity to have their photo taken in supersized frames with either one of the ‘superhero vaccination team’ or a member of the Defence Forces socially distanced.
Operational Site Manager at Cavan CVC, Eddie Ward said they have an aim for the tree. “Post vaccination children can put a ribbon on our wishing tree and our aim is to make the tree flourish. We know that getting a vaccine can be a scary concept for children and we wanted to make it as fun as we could. When we got the costumes we never thought we would have as much fun as the children. Because they are children we organise smaller clinics so as to give them as much time as they need. The vaccinator will talk them and their parents through every step before they are vaccinated and answer any questions or allay any fears they might have.”
At Monaghan CVC there is an element of fantasy also, with staff choosing to don Disney character costumes. Operational Site Manager at Monaghan CVC Paula Loughran explained how they are also making the CVC a comfortable place for children “There are colourful drawings right across the centre, a White Board where the children can write their comments and a ‘Your Service Your Say’ box for comments from parents and children. These initiatives have received very positive feedback from parents and children. We look forward to seeing parents and support children for their vaccinations.”
CHO1 Head of Health & Wellbeing/Vaccination Lead, Cara O’Neill said: “We would like to support parents/guardians to get all the information they need to make an informed decision about getting their child’s vaccination. There is a wealth of advice on www.hse.ie. We look forward to welcoming you and your children to Cavan and Monaghan CVC’s”
ENDS