There are now two vaccines available nationwide. The first from Pfizer and a subsequent entry from Moderna. The FDA found both to be highly effective and safe. The question is…how we get vaccinated.
The federal government has offered a suggested priority for distribution to the states. However, each state can set its own priorities. Virtually all states designated health care workers and nursing home patients as their top priority. After that, it varies by state.
Here is Florida, the governor has designated individuals age 65 to be in the same group as health care workers, and this group is now receiving vaccinations throughout Collier and Lee counties. The process varies between the two counties. In Lee county it is first come first serve, while in Collier county you can make an appointment.
As of this Monday morning, there are six locations for vaccinations in Collier County. Each of the scheduled sessions at these locations have already been fully reserved. However, you can sign on and join the wait list. We do not have any information how effective this will be, but it may help.
The entire process varies by state and by county. Collier seems to be well organized, but the entire process is based on vaccine availability. Complicating the matter, each shot given now, requires a second one is 21 or 28 days depending on whether it was a Pfizer or Moderna vaccine. This results in a necessary holdback of supplies to be sure those receiving the first dose will be able to get the second dose.
Our recommendation is to follow the Florida Department of Health in Collier County online. They are providing important information and will continually post new availability locations and times. This will allow you to register for an appointment…assuming you qualify as a health care worker or you are age 65.
We will continue to keep you advised. Meanwhile, if you have any other health care issues, please call us at First Care Clinic 239-260-5307 to schedule an appointment.
We have Rapid PCR Covid testing at the clinic with results while you wait. Again, it is best to call us for an appointment.