Overwhelming response in both Mitchell and Yancey counties to the vaccine clinics has led to long lines and traffic jams. Cars began lining up around 4 am in Yancey County yesterday. By 7:30 people were being turned away and told to come back after noon. At 12:30 Yancey Health Department was again at full capacity and had to shut down the clinic. Yancey began their clinic this morning at 7 am. Diane Creek, Director of Toe River Health District, said the district has received 6675 doses combined of the Moderna vaccine, as of January 17. According to the report, Toe River Health District has only the Moderna vaccine available, which requires two does, one month apart. The health department says there is plenty of vaccine for everyone. It is a matter of being patient as they work to distribute it. Not including yesterday Toe River has vaccinated 759 individuals 75 years and older as well as their healthcare workers in Avery, 482 in Mitchell and 576 in Yancey.
The vaccine is a Federal resource. It is available to every person in the United States, free of charge. The Health Department is required to provide it to anyone who comes to the vaccination clinics no matter where they are from. If people are from out of county or even out of state the Health Department must provide them with the vaccine if they meet qualifications or are 65 years old and older. That also means that you can go to any other county and get the vaccine. The Health Departments currently are able to distribute approximately 250 vaccines per day. No appointment or pre-registration is required for these clinics. Remember to wear short sleeves and if you have insurance, bring your insurance card and bring a photo ID with you. The vaccine is free, regardless of whether or not you have insurance. If you are currently taking blood thinners, you must provide signed permission from your doctor in order to receive the vaccine.
