More CVS stores to carry vaccine, DeSantis announces during news conference in Lehigh Acres

Reporter: Sydney Persing Writer: Derrick Shaw
Published: Updated:
DeSantis announces expanded vaccine availibity at CVS.

The governor announced the expansion of vaccine availability at CVS pharmacies across the state, including here in Southwest Florida.

Gov. Ron DeSantis held a press conference Tuesday afternoon at a CVS in Lehigh Acres.

76 more CVS pharmacies will begin vaccinating Floridians.

Signups will begin on Thursday for appointments starting Friday. Visit cvs.com to register and for more information on their vaccine registration and availability.

WINK News asked Governor DeSantis, as many of you have asked us during this process, what about the people in Southwest Florida who still need a shot. He says this expansion is a great opportunity for those eligible to get one.

“Well this is a great opportunity for CVS.com, if they go on the Publix website tomorrow morning, these retail pharmacies have great coverage in Southwest Florida,” said Governor DeSantis.

This update will include seven CVS locations in Lee County and the shots will be available beginning on Thursday.

But, as WINK news announced yesterday, Publix is putting seniors on hold. The company announced on Monday that it will be prioritizing teachers and school staff to get the child care providers, before any other eligibility groups.

So, we asked the governor about that as well. “I’m not sure that that’s true,” he said.

DeSantis says that since Publix gets its shots through the federal pharmacy program and that program told Publix they have to give shots to school staff regardless of age.

“I do not think that is preferential over seniors,” DeSantis said.

However, according to Publix, it is. A quick search on the website shows it must prioritize school staff and child care, workers. After they prioritize this group, everyone else can start booking appointments.

No matter who you are, where you work or what waitlist you’re on the governor has got advice for you.

“If you’re on a waitlist for one, it doesn’t mean you can’t sign up for others. And if there’s a retail availability, by all means, do that,” Governor DeSantis said.

Watch again in the player below or click here.

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