The San Luis Obispo Province Public Health Department is now opening vaccination appointments for COVID-19 to people 65 and older.
County health officials say the decision comes on the recommendation of the local Vaccine Task Force based on the current vaccine supply and the risk of serious consequences from COVID-19.
Appointments for next week start on Thursday, February 11 at 9:00 am. To schedule an appointment, visit www.Recoverslo.org/VaccineAppointments or call the County’s Phone Assistance Center at (805) 543-2444.
Getting the vaccine for COVID-19 is something San Luis Obispo County resident George Westlund is looking forward to.
“I just see it as another rule about protection besides masks,” Westlund said.
While those in Westlund’s age group, people aged 65-74, can now get the vaccine – the announcement came with some caveats.
“We have 1,900 appointments and a population of 38,000 that make up that 65-74 age group in our province. As you can see, we have a woefully inadequate supply to meet demand,” Dr. Penny Borenstein, San Luis Obispo County Public Health Officer, said.
People in the community are asked to evaluate their health needs and risks of contracting the virus to see if they can wait to schedule an appointment for now.
For Westlund, he says it’s worth the wait when it comes his turn to get the vaccine, as his family and friends have been affected by the virus.
“I know people who got it: some had mild cases, others had worse cases, and I know a few people whose relatives died from it. So I just think of it as a way to keep myself going and do what I must do it, ”said Westlund.
Health officials say the number of appointments is limited due to limited vaccine supplies.
The province expects to administer more than 6,100 first and second doses of the COVID-19 vaccine next week at the clinics of San Luis Obispo, Paso Robles and Arroyo Grande.
Vaccine appointments are also available at select pharmacies and the French Hospital Medical Center if their own supply allows. Click here for information about other local vaccination options.