The COVID-19 vaccine has been available for months, with availability widening greatly about a month ago when it became available to all adults.
Swain County Health Department is receiving approximately 100 Moderna vaccines each week, a drop from 200 a week because of a decrease in demand in Swain County.
“For the past couple of weeks, we have only given approximately 50 first dose vaccines each week,” said Swain County Health Director Alison Cochran. “We have reached out to many businesses, government organizations, larger employers in the area, churches and all of the schools in the county concerning vaccines.”
The department has also been posting updates on social media, she said, to keep people informed about the availability of the vaccine.
Walgreens in Bryson City recently began advertising that it now has the COVID-19 vaccine available for free in a drive-thru format. To schedule a vaccine appointment, visit walgreens.com/covid19vac, sign in with an account, confirm eligibility screening questions, then schedule your appointment. The location also continues to schedule free testing.
Swain County cases are low, with just 4 positive cases recorded over 14 days. A total of 17 Swain County residents have died from the virus.
Statewide, there were 2,475 newly reported cases April 16 with a 5.5% positive rate among those tested.
Swain County’s vaccination rate is lagging behind the statewide rate. Through Friday, just over 20% of the population is fully vaccinated and at least 24% has received at least one dose in Swain County.
Statewide, over 33% is fully vaccinated (age 18+) and 45% has received at least one dose of the vaccine.
It’s not clear exactly what’s behind the slow down in sign-ups.
For the majority of adults, the side effects of the vaccine are minimal. “Side effects do include sore arms, body aches, low-grade fevers and headaches,” confirmed Cochran, adding “These symptoms usually only last 24-48 hours.”
The vaccine is considered the best way at defeating the pandemic and getting back to a normal way of life.
“Swain County Health Department encourages eligible individuals to receive their vaccine to protect themselves and the most vulnerable in our population,” Cochran said.
Individuals may call the health department at 488-3198 to schedule their first dose appointments Monday-Friday 7:45 a.m.-4:45 p.m.