Niagara Health has no COVID-19 patients in its hospitals for the first time since September 2020.

The health organization said having no COVID patients is a step in the right direction in getting through the pandemic.

“This is the result of the efforts and dedication of the entire Niagara Health team,” said Linda Boich, executive lead in the Niagara COVID-19 Vaccination Task Force.

“We are grateful to them for their professionalism and commitment to our patients and their families, which are making a positive difference during a difficult time,” said Boich.

“We’re also thankful to our partners and our community for their support and efforts throughout the pandemic.”

Niagara Health said the milestone also reflects the success COVID-19 vaccines are having on limiting the transmission of the virus in the region.

“We are getting closer to putting the pandemic behind us as more people get vaccinated,” chief of staff Dr. Johan Viljoen said in a news release.

“Getting vaccinated against COVID-19 is critical to preventing a fourth wave and ending this pandemic. We encourage anyone who has not yet been vaccinated with a first and/or second dose to do so.”

The Seymour-Hannah vaccination clinic in St. Catharines is open for walk-ins and for booked appointments. There are also a number of other opportunities to get vaccinated in the community. More details about clinics can be found at www.niagarahealth.on.ca/site/vaccination-clinic.