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As vaccine-eligible population broadens, some 75-and-older worry about receiving crucial second dose

Dr. Mandy Cohen with the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services says the concerns about second dose shortages are unnecessary.
Posted 2021-01-15T04:08:09+00:00 - Updated 2021-01-15T08:03:02+00:00
As more of population becomes eligible, some seniors worry about receiving second dose of vaccine

There have been lines of vehicles throughout the state in recent days, carrying seniors 75-and-older who are eligible for the first round of the COVID-19 vaccine. But could an announcement that came down from Governor Cooper’s office complicate round two?

The Governor shared that people 65-and-older in North Carolina will now be able to get the vaccine.

This news has made some folks in the 75-and-up category wonder if there will be enough vaccine for their second shot.

Johnston County resident Jerry Mcglophlin received his first dose of vaccine, but admits there’s a lot of uncertainty as to what happens next.

“Everything is a mess. No one knows what they are doing,” Mcglophlin explained. “I get the shot today [but] I don’t know when I am going to get my second shot. It isn’t foolproof until you get the second shot.”

In Orange County, when people get their first dose, the county health department gets their contact information and informs them they will reach out in a few days to schedule their second dose appointment.

Dr. Mandy Cohen with the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services says the concerns about second dose shortages are unnecessary.

“There’s no risk that the second dose will not be there,” Cohen insisted. “We’re making sure folks who have gotten their first dose will get second dose. I don’t want anyone to be concerned.”

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