MIAMI GARDENS, FLA. (WSVN) - Changes are coming to COVID-19 vaccination sites across South Florida this week, as the state works to expand eligibility by once again lowering the age requirement.
Starting Wednesday, the sites supported by the Federal Emergency Management Association will begin to administer second doses of the vaccine.
“I’ve been waiting for them to get to my age bracket, so I was very happy to come today,” said Carletha Baker.
There’s a new group of people rolling up their sleeves across Florida.
Anyone 50 and older is now eligible for a COVID-19 vaccine.
“I came before, when everyone was coming, and I couldn’t get it, so now I was able to get it,” said Rosalind Morris.
From Hialeah to Tamarac, shots are going into arms all across South Florida.
Lighthouse of Broward in Fort Lauderdale also set up a vaccination site for the visually impaired, some of whom have struggled to get the medication.
“Oftentimes, trying to navigate websites to register for the shot is an issue,” said Ellyn Drotzer.
And more vaccine choices may soon hit the market.
Despite some trouble overseas, AstraZeneca reports their vaccine has an efficacy rate of 79% in the U.S.
The pharmaceutical company plans to apply for emergency use authorization sometime next month.
The timing couldn’t be more critical.
“The Northeast and the upper Midwest are beginning to again see a significant rise in cases,” said CDC director Rochelle Walensky.
Health experts warn some of those cases are dangerous variants of the virus.
That’s why people are asked to remain vigilant.
“The continued relaxation of preventive measures while cases are still high and while concerning variants are spreading rapidly throughout the United States is a serious threat to the progress we have made as a nation,” Walensky said.
Patients who received their first dose at a FEMA-supported site do not have to go to the same location to get their second shot. They may go to a different FEMA-run site and will be required to show their shot card and ID.
For more information about vaccination sites in Florida, click here.
If you would like to pre-register for a vaccine at FEMA-run sites in Florida, click here.
Anyone with questions and concerns about the coronavirus can call the Florida Department of Health’s 24-hour hotline at 1-866-779-6121.
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