The San Luis Obispo County Department of Public Health is now opening COVID-19 vaccine appointments for people 65 and older.
Official health officials say the decision comes on the recommendation of the local vaccination task force based on the current vaccine supply and the risk of serious COVID-19 results.
Appointments for next week open on Thursday 11:00 at 09:00. Visit www.Recoverslo.org/VaccineAppointments to schedule an appointment or call the district Telephone Assistance Center at (805) 543-2444.
The vaccination for COVID-19 is something that George Westlund, a resident of San Luis Obispo County, says he was looking forward to.
“I just see it as another line of protection, in addition to masks,” Westlund said.
While those in Westlund’s age group, people aged 65-74, can now get the vaccine – the announcement comes with a few caveats.
“We have 1,900 appointments and a population of 38,000 that make up the 65-74 age group in our country. As you can see, we have very inadequate supply to supply the demand,” said Dr. Penny Borenstein, San Luis Obispo Public Health Officer, said.
People in the community are asked to evaluate their health needs and risks to see if the virus can continue to make an appointment.
For Westlund, he says it will be worth the wait when it’s his turn to get the vaccine, as his family and friends are affected by the virus.
“I know people who have had it: some have had mild cases, others have had worse and I know a few people whose family members have died from it. Therefore, I consider it one way to keep myself going and do it. what I have to do, ‘said Westlund.
Health officials say appointments are limited due to limited vaccine supply.
The province expects to administer more than 6,100 first and second doses of the COVID-19 vaccine at next week’s clinics in San Luis Obispo, Paso Robles and Arroyo Grande.
Vaccine appointments are also available at select pharmacies and the French hospital’s medical center, as their own stock allows. Click here for information on other local vaccine opportunities.