Lee County set to make calls for those waiting to get second COVID-19 vaccine

Reporter: Breana Ross Writer: Jack Lowenstein
Published: Updated:
Vaccine tent. Credit: WINK News.

People should also look out for text messages letting you know that you will get a call soon, and check the settings on your phone to make sure unknown callers will be accepted and not blocked.

You’ll want to keep your phone close because, if you miss the call three times, you could miss your shot at that second dose so many people are hoping to get.

Joan and Steven Goldman have been on edge ever since they got their first vaccine at the Old Bonita Library because they weren’t sure if and when they would get their second dose.

“I had difficulty sleeping. I had difficulty believing,” Joan said.

“It’s all consuming because it is so vital,” Steven said.

Now the end is in sight, Lee County plans to distribute second doses at RSW Airport Jan. 27 and 28.

The State’s vendor, Tidal Basin, will call everyone who stood in vaccine lines in December to schedule an appointment starting Friday.

“It has become my top priority so that I’ve canceled every appointment I had,” Joan said. β€œOn Friday, I’m going to be right by my phone and just waiting for the call.”

The County said it will only try to call three times. If you miss the calls, you’ll miss your shot.

“For the next few days, I will just answer everything and live with my phone. That’s OK,” Sally Harrison-Pepper said.

Harrison-Pepper says getting the second dose fast is crucial for her husband….

“My husband had to stop his immune-suppressant’s because it would reduce the efficacy of the vaccine, so it’s been getting harder and harder,” Harrison-Pepper said. She is happy a plan is set, and that she’s one step closer to wearing her COVID-19-vaccinated buttons with pride.

“Now I feel, I feel really relieved, a lot better,’’ Harrison-Pepper said.

Tidal Basin will start calling those eligible for the second dose Friday, but calls will continue through the weekend. Remember to look out for scammers as you are answering unknown numbers. The County tells us they would never ask for your Social Security number or financial information, so beware of callers who do.

Visit our story for a running list of COVID-19 vaccine updates in SWFL counties to learn more about the second dose in Lee County.

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