Volusia Officials Say They Are Working As Fast As They Can

Daytona Beach, FL -  Volusia County Emergency Management hosted a news briefing today (January 6) to discuss the COVID-19 vaccinations roll-out in the County. The basic message of the meeting is that the number of doses of vaccine received will guide when and how many vaccinations can be administered. Newly elected Volusia County Chair Jeff Brower said what a way to get baptized into his new position with COVID-19. He also asked for patience from County residents. "We’re limited to the amount of vaccine that we get. The County is working with our partners, we have a plan in place, and we’re asking for the public’s patience." Florida Department of Health – Volusia Administrator Patricia Boswell talked about how the vaccine is being allocated, saying the initial allotment was used for the vaccinators with the rest being used earlier this week in Daytona Beach and tomorrow and Friday in Deltona. "I believe the allocation is done from the federal government to the state. I did hear that population was going to be a factor and then, at the state level, the allocation is made to the counties."  Brower did say that seniors are a priority for the vaccination and the fact that many of them can’t get out for the vaccination and need it brought to them. He said that the federal government has contracted with Publix, CVS, Walgreens, and other various retailers, saying that those businesses are hiring thousands of people to get the vaccinations done. Brower said those businesses are expected to get out in the next week or two so that shut-ins and people in long-term care facilities can get vaccinated. Also discussed was that many seniors might not have a computer or be comfortable with signing up online. Future events will be by appointment and besides making an appointment online, a phone number will be available for making one. For more information on COVID-19 testing and vaccinations, visit volusia.org and the Volusia County Emergency Management Facebook or Twitter pages.  You can also call the Citizens Information Center at 866-345-0345.