As of Tuesday, the Christian County Health Department had vaccinated 3,781 Kentuckians 70 years old and older, spokeswoman Amanda Sweeney Brunt told Hoptown Chronicle.
The total includes residents from across the region — not just those who live in Christian County, Sweeney Brunt said. The health department operates a regional vaccine distribution site located at the James E. Bruce Convention Center.
As local health officials prepare to open up vaccinations to the next phase of eligible Kentuckians in early March, they are asking for help getting the word out to other Kentuckians 70 and older who would like to receive the vaccine.
“Please pass this information along to your community partners, constituents, congregation members, patients, customers, etc.,” Sweeney Brunt said in a news release Tuesday.
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Christian County’s 70+ population
According to 2019 Census estimates, approximately 5,960 residents of Christian County are 70 or older.
The number of individuals in long-term care facilities — which would have received vaccinations through a separate program administered by Walgreens and Kroger — was not available. However, according to available federal data, at least 575 Christian County residents live at long-term care facilities.
While the health department was not able to provide a breakdown of the number of seniors in Christian County who had received the vaccine, estimates suggest at least 30% of locals 70 and older have not received the vaccine.
Scheduling an appointment
Vaccines are being provided at the convention center by appointment only. Walk-ins are not accepted.
Residents can schedule an appointment online or by calling 270-887-4160 ext. 640. According to Tuesday’s release, the department is experiencing a high call volume and wait times may be longer than expected. The quickest way to sign up is online, Sweeney Brunt said.
The department is asking members of the public to assist elderly individuals who may not have internet access in scheduling appointments.
Scheduling for phase 1c to begin next week
The health department on Tuesday also announced that it will begin scheduling vaccination appointments for individuals in phase 1c on Monday.
This phase includes anyone age 60 or older, anyone age 16 or older with CDC highest risk conditions and all essential workers. (Click on the graphic below for details about these categories.)
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Julia Hunter is the engagement editor for Hoptown Chronicle. Reach her at julia@hoptownchronicle.org.
