Tallulah – The Graham County Department of Public Health is dedicated to ensuring that all citizens receive a COVID-19 vaccination.
The following information includes information released by the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services regarding COVID-19 vaccination distribution and important information about our local efforts:
* Want to get vaccinated? Our health department is working hard to get folks in our community vaccinated against
COVID-19. Currently, 4.74 percent of the state’s population has received their first dose of vaccine. In Graham County, 5.2 percent of the population has received their first dose. We are grateful to the health department staff for their hard work and tireless efforts; they are the reason we are ahead of the curve on vaccinations.
* Vaccine supply is very limited. With a nationwide vaccine shortage, our health department currently receives 100 doses per week. When they receive vaccines, they are vaccinating 40-60 people per day until supply runs out. The health department has filled all available appointments for the supply they have; the department will not be able to make any new appointments until they get confirmation of the next shipment of vaccine.
* Groups current eligible for vaccination: Currently, Group 1 and Group 2 are eligible to make an appointment to receive their first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. Group 1 includes healthcare workers, and long-term care facility residents and staff. Group 2 includes anyone aged 65 or older. Older patients – and Group 1 and 2 patients at highest risk of death from COVID-19 – are prioritized. As an example, someone who is 76 will be prioritized over someone who is 67.
* Where can you sign up? To be added to the health department’s master vaccination list, call (828) 479-7900. If you reach the voicemail, please leave a message with your full legal name, date of birth, address, best phone number to contact you, and any health conditions that may put you at high risk of death from COVID-19. You will be added to the master list and assigned to Group 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5. When it comes time for your group to begin getting the first dose of the vaccine, someone from the health department will call you to schedule an appointment.