Vaccine expansion in Southwest Florida

Reporter: Andrea Guerrero Writer: Drew Hill
Published: Updated:
vaccine
Credit: WINK News

Beginning Monday, those aged 40 and older will be eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine and by April all adults will be eligible for the vaccine.

However, many seniors feel left behind and don’t want to be forgotten.

It’s been more than three months since getting the shot in the arm became a priority for many, especially our 65 and over population.

According to Lee County officials, to date, 70% of those aged 65 and older have been vaccinated in the county.

But, others are still waiting for their chance.

Sally Harrison-Pepper tries to help older people get vaccinated. “Some of these people are grieving, they’re like I never going to get this,” she said. “I never get an appointment.”

Lee County received 30,000 vaccinates to distribute over the next three weeks. These doses will be specifically for those age 65 and older who are still on the pre-registration list.

Sally Harrison-Pepper wants those administering the vaccine to not forget those who are most vulnerable.

“Time gets shorter and that’s why I think the people with the higher age range should get the first calls this week,” Harrison-Pepper said.

But, she still has her concerns with the age dropping on Monday to 40 for the COVID-19 vaccine.

“I’m worried that the 40s are going to rush in and overwhelm the opportunity of those in their 70 80s to get vaccinated,” said Harrison-Pepper.

The county has also received an additional 4,000 doses of the Moderna vaccine to give to those who are not from Southwest Florida.

Lee County officials say that Southwest Florida International Airport is extending their hours for vaccinations next week from 8 a.m. now to 7 p.m.

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