Following an announcement, from Governor Tate Reeves, on Tuesday it appears as though Covid-19 vaccinations are becoming more accessible to the public.
Until yesterday vaccinations had been reserved for members of the community that were 75 years old and above. Healthcare providers had been able to get the vaccinations at the end of December.
Magee General Hospital administrator, Gregg Gibbes, said while access to the vaccine is being made available there are not as many doses available as needed. Gibbes said initially Magee had requested enough vaccine to provide 5,000 shots.
He said they received enough for 500 immunizations on Monday. He said that was to cover Simpson County. Yesterday, Governor Reeves lowered the age to people who are 65 and above also he included those who may have pre-existing health issues to be included on an earlier schedule. However there are not enough doses of the vaccine to cover the number of requests.
Gibbes is optimistic that supply issues will improve.
Gibbes said that this has created a bit of another issue in being able to manage the people with existing healthcare workers. He said in some cases they were already operating short-handed.
He said that people who are seeking vaccinations should contact the hospital or either of the two clinics operated through Covington County Hospital which would include Dr. Blackledge’s office or the new physician Dr. Rita Redd. He said an appointment must be made and it will not cost the patient anything for the vaccination. However, if the patient has insurance they should bring their card along with their drivers license.
