HAMPTON, Va. — Coordinators of the Hampton Roads Convention Center vaccine clinic said they have appointments available for upcoming clinics, but not enough people are filling the slots.
Riverside Health's VP and Chief of Pharmacy, Cindy Williams, said the city had last-minute appointments available for the clinic at convention center Friday, so the city sent out an alert to residents and was able to fill the available spots; however, Williams said the problem doesn't stop there.
"We've had a harder time filling the clinics [for Phase 2], so this week is no exception," Williams explained. "Many of those who are getting invitations have already been vaccinated elsewhere and the data hasn't just caught up."
It's not just data issues. Williams said it's also due to people in Phase 2 being hesitant to get their doses. She said Virginia needs 80% of the population vaccinated in order to reach herd immunity, but according to Dr. Danny Avula, vaccine coordinator for Virginia, the state is only at 60%.
"If you're hesitant, I recommend people to educate yourself. Look at the information that's available through the CDC and VHD websites. But also, talk with your physician, talk with another trusted healthcare provider," said Williams.
Hampton Mayor Donnie Tuck has noticed the trend and said he is working with resources to help educate and encourage people to consider getting vaccinated.
"We've got a number of partnerships with individuals in the community, certainly with the faith community, particularly reaching the community of color," said Tuck. "They are still reluctant there, but overall, I think the numbers will go up."
When it comes to the vaccines' expiration dates, Williams said she is not worried now, since they only order the necessary amount of doses. She said when the expiration dates start coming up toward the beginning of the summer, that's when she will be concerned if not enough people sign up.
The clinic at the Hampton Roads Convention Center runs until 4 p.m. Friday (April 9). The next two clinics at the center will be held Wednesday, April 14 and Thursday, April 15.