UPDATE (10:00 AM)-- Appointments are booked at each county's vaccine thought next week, but you can join the waitlist here:(https://www.eventbrite.com/e/134576272253).
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If you're trying to figure out where to get a Covid-19 vaccine, Collier County is officially an option for you.
“Didn’t even know when he put the needle in us. I didn't feel a thing until he put the band-aid on so it's very easy,” said John Schuepfer, a vaccine recipient.
Seamless, that's how John describes getting the Covid-19 vaccine. John and his wife, Jill say they've been waiting for this day. They've taken extra precautions during this time, and that includes, not holding their granddaughter, which is why John said, they chose to get vaccinated.
“Well it’s more freedom that we have now and once we get the second dose we can actually go around a normal life instead of being shut in,” said John Schuepfer.
“The benefits outweigh the risks totally,” said Jill Schuepfer, another vaccine recipient.
A notion many others seem to have as they lined up outside of the Collier County Health Department, waiting for their chance to get the shot.
“I think it's a good thing for it to happen. We are from Canada, we don't get them this quickly, “ said Harley Harkness, a vaccine recipient.
Today marked the first day that Collier County distributed the vaccine. The vaccination's available for those 65 and older and front line healthcare workers who work directly with Covid-19 patients.
Collier County plans to vaccinate 500 people per day through Friday, January 8th.
The people who received the vaccine signed up in advance. Officials have confirmed that they are completely booked for this first round of distributions, but you can be added to a waitlist.
The Florida Department of Health also says don't forget to plan to head back, as you will need a second dose of the Moderna vaccine, so keep an eye on your email inbox.
“You cannot mix pharmaceuticals. You will be receiving an email notification reminding you that you will have to make an appointment for your vaccine for the second dose, and remember the second dose does provide 95 % efficacy,” said Kristine Hollingsworth, Public Information Officer for the Collier County Health Department.
As the county focuses on vaccine distribution, they've closed many of their testing sites, but you can still get tested this Thursday at North Collier Regional Park from 9 am - 3 pm.
