San Luis Obispo County has received the first shipment of Johnson & Johnson’s COVID-19 vaccine.
County public health officials say 1,400 doses of the vaccine will be reallocated to some local pharmacies to administer them. Meanwhile, the county’s three public vaccine clinics will continue to administer the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines.
The Johnson & Johnson vaccine, which received emergency use authorization from the Food and Drug Administration last week, only requires one dose. Pfizer and Moderna vaccines require two shots.
“From the beginning, our biggest challenge has been the limited supply of vaccines,” said Dr. Penny Borenstein, the county health officer. “Adding a third vaccine manufacturer means there will be more supply for SLO county residents to get vaccinated as quickly as possible.”
San Luis Obispo County currently vaccinates health care workers and residents age 65 and older. To register for an appointment, click here. Vaccine appointments are also available at various local pharmacies.
Some local daycare workers and K-12 teachers and staff working in person can now also receive the COVID-19 vaccine in SLO County. Health officials say these appointments are being scheduled by the County Office of Education and the Child Care Planning Council.
In Santa Barbara County, public health officials expect to receive 3,800 doses of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine next week. According to reports, these doses will be distributed among county health care providers and will be used at some public health vaccination sites.
Santa Barbara County currently vaccinates health care workers, residents age 65 and older, and workers in the education / daycare, food / agriculture, and emergency services sectors. For information on making an appointment, click here.