It’s hard to believe that we recently passed the one-year mark of the issuing of our local emergency activation order for the COVID-19 pandemic. We are now on day 374 and I am proud of Orange County’s steady and continued progress to combat the virus. We are making remarkable progress, over 15% of all Orange County residents have now received at least one shot. But that doesn’t mean the coronavirus is not a threat. There have been a reported 120,183 COVID-19 cases in Orange County. 1,161 residents have died from the coronavirus.
Vaccine Eligibility
Starting today, a new group of Floridians can get their COVID-19 vaccinations. Eligibility for COVID-19 vaccinations at the convenient Drive-Thru Vaccination Site at the Orange County Convention Center (OCCC) now includes residents ages 40 and up. Anyone meeting the following requirements can register for an appointment at the Convention Center beginning March 22, 2021. Check www.ocfl.net/Vaccine for appointment options. Please note, Orange County Government employees are permitted to receive the vaccine at the OCCC site regardless of where you live in Central Florida.
- Residents 40+ (County employees do not have to be an Orange County resident to qualify)
- Long-term care facility residents and staff (any age)
- Health care professionals with direct patient contact (any age)
- All educators and staff in schools/colleges/licensed daycares (any age)
- Law enforcement officers, corrections, firefighters and staff at those agencies (any age)
- Extremely medically vulnerable/high-risk
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Residents must bring the required state form signed by a physician
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Residents who are un/under-insured may visit a Primary Care Access Clinic to see a physician
To book an appointment and/or find other vaccination options throughout the County, visit ocfl.net/Vaccine. I am happy to report that over the weekend the Convention Center site surpassed 150,000 COVID-19 vaccines administered.
Anyone who is medically vulnerable can receive the vaccine at ANY site when providing the required state form signed by a physician. For more information and site locations throughout the County, visit ocfl.net/Vaccine. Getting the shot into more arms of individuals is always a priority and a continued goal of mine.
No One is Going to Care About Your Health More Than YOU Webinar
Want to learn more about the COVID-19 vaccine? I encourage you to join the free webinar by Dr. Michael L. Howell, No One is Going to Care About Your Health More Than YOU on Tuesday, March 23, 2 p.m. - 3 p.m. Dr. Howell will also cover health disparities and how they could impact you, preventive health measures and what you can do to remain in charge of your health. Register now!
Asian Pacific American Coalition Vigil
With more than 40 years in public service and as Orange County Mayor, it has always been my solemn commitment to work with community leaders in addressing inequality. After meeting with Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) groups and staff, I know they are experiencing frustration and grief from the violent acts in Georgia and around the country; yet, these sentiments are underscored by an overwhelming need to achieve justice for all people.
I appreciate all of your hard work. Keep up the good work and let’s make this a great week.
