Safety is a top priority while our federal partners work to make COVID-19 vaccines available. There are two COVID-19 vaccines currently authorized and recommended for use in the United States, and three other vaccines are currently in large-scale clinical trials. More than 29,000 people in Pinellas County have already received the first dose of the vaccine, primarily through hospitals, health centers and at long-term care facilities, which have been hardest hit by the pandemic.
Pinellas County residents 65 and older should SOON be able to start pre-registering for a second round of COVID-19 vaccines. Approximately 10,000 additional vaccines will be available starting next week. Please be patient – Limited availability of vaccines is anticipated over the next several weeks - With around 250,000 seniors eligible for publicly distributed state vaccines and supply varying based on what the federal government provides to Florida each week, vaccinations will be a long-term process.
The state-run health department is also collaborating with Pinellas County in a contract with a new company to operate an online and phone registration system that’s also being used by Pasco, Hillsborough, Orange and other Florida counties.
In addition, any representation that a COVID-19 vaccination can be provided quickly in exchange for money or personal identifiable information … is a SCAM. You will never be asked to provide payment in any form to reserve a vaccine or appointment. You will never be asked to provide confidential information such as your Social security number or credit card information to reserve a vaccine or appointment.
With the arrival of COVID-19 vaccines as an important first step toward curbing the virus, it’s still important to take all necessary precautions to protect against its spread. Please continue to wear a mask, wash your hands frequently, maintain a social distance and stay at home if you are feeling sick.
Thank you for your patience. ~Mayor Sam Henderson
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