SLO County opens COVID-19 vaccines to people 65 and older

The San Luis Obispo County Public Health Department is now opening appointments for the COVID-19 vaccine to people 65 and older.

County health officials say the decision comes on the recommendation of the local vaccine task force, based on the current vaccine supply and the risk of severe consequences from COVID-19.

Meetings for next week will open at 9 a.m. on Thursday, February 11. To make an appointment, visit www.Recoverslo.org/VaccineAppointments or call the county helpline at (805) 543-2444.

Getting the COVID-19 vaccine is something that San Luis Obispo County resident George Westlund says he looks forward to.

“I see this as another line on protection besides masks,” Westlund said.

While people in Westlund’s age group, those aged 65 to 74, can now get the shot – the announcement comes with a few caveats.

“We have 1,900 nominations and a population of 38,000 that make up that 65 to 74 age group in our county. As you can see, we have a woefully insufficient supply to meet demand,” Dr. Penny Borenstein, San Luis Obispo County Public Health Officer, said.

Community members are asked to assess their health needs and risk of contracting the virus to see if they can continue to delay making an appointment for now.

For Westlund, he says it will be worth the wait when it is his turn to get the vaccine as his family and friends have been affected by the virus.

“I know people who have had it: some have had mild cases, others have had worse cases and I know a few people whose family members have died. So I see this as a way to keep myself going. and do what I need to do, ”Westlund said.

Health officials say appointments are limited due to the limited supply of vaccines.

The county plans to administer more than 6,100 first and second doses of the COVID-19 vaccine at clinics next week in San Luis Obispo, Paso Robles and Arroyo Grande.

Appointments for vaccines are also available in some pharmacies and in the French hospital medical center according to their own supplies. Click here for information on other local vaccine opportunities.