According to a report, California officials closed a COVID-19 vaccination clinic when hundreds of unsuitable workers from Hollywood manufacturing companies flooded the facility looking for injections.
City officials confirmed that within the first hour, 900 of the 1,500 appointments at the Pasadena City College clinic were booked by several employees of Hollywood’s production, media and streaming companies – most of whom were ineligible.
“Hundreds reported within the first hour,” said city spokeswoman Lisa Derderian. “It was like a quick fire.”
Last week, an email from the Pasadena Public Health Department went to frontline workers and seniors with instructions to sign up for an appointment at the clinic through the nationwide vaccination website.
The email also stated that people trying to get the COVID-19 vaccine must prove that they worked in an eligible industry and lived or worked in Pasadena, according to The Los Angeles Times.
‘We’ll check for ID. We will reject you if you don’t pass the current level, if you don’t live or work in town, ‘Derderian said.
“Our health officer will not jeopardize her credentials, health department license or the city’s reputation. We are very strict about following the guidelines. “
City officials decided to close the clinic indefinitely after spending several days checking that those who made appointments were eligible – by finding that some of them were not.
Residents pointed out that there was a drop-down menu on the registration site asking which industry the person was registering in: “Service – Entertainment, Performance.”
Officials also noted that the clinic’s closure has been tough for many seniors queuing for the vaccination.
“Some cried when they heard their appointments had been moved,” Derderian said.
As of Tuesday, no new date has been planned for the clinic to reopen.