They have been waiting. Patiently for most but very eagerly. Last week, vaccine clinics for Wright County residents 65 and older finally got started. The first was a clinic last Thursday in Clarion, with others in Dows, Eagle Grove and Belmond over the last few days.
Iowans 65 and older were named a priority group in the 1B tier. This group also includes educators, law enforcement and first responders, and some manufacturing workers.
Wright County Public Health manages the county’s vaccines and has been conducting the 65 and older clinics. People in this group were able to sign up for a vaccine slot online. Many people who had previously called public health and had been put on waiting lists were also scheduled.
County Public Health Director Sandy McGrath noted that they had about 50 people scheduled at the first 65 and older clinic in Clarion last Thursday. She added that she would love to be able to vaccinate many more than that at a time, but they only get 200 doses per week, and they also have to use those for other groups like educators.
Despite the less than perfect weather, almost everyone had made it to town for their shot last Thursday. And everyone spoken to was more than happy to be there. 77-year-old Miriam Jensen said she was feeling great right after her vaccination. She explained that she had previously called public health and the pharmacy to see when she could be vaccinated and was happy that the day was finally here. Miriam emphasized, “I’ve been worried about losing so many people these last months. The vaccine is a relief.”
Raynee and Larry Delano also received their vaccinations and were impressed by the operation. “This is very well-run and smooth,” said Raynee. She added that they have been eagerly waiting to receive the vaccine, especially since both she and Larry had COVID back in November.
As she waited for 15 minutes after she was vaccinated, Raynee said she felt good and was not overly worried about symptoms in the next few days. “That’ll just be the body doing its job. And the vaccine symptoms won’t be as bad as COVID was,” she emphasized. Clarion Ambulance Service was also on hand in the event of any adverse reactions after vaccinations.
Several folks who got the vaccine are hoping that it is a step towards regular life. Miriam Jensen said she hopes to soon get back to seeing family and friends. Yet she and others said they’ll still be careful and follow guidance. Raynee concurred that she and her husband will continue to be cautious even after being vaccinated. “We just don’t know enough about this virus,” she asserted.
Everyone who receives their vaccine at the clinics is also already scheduled for a time to come back in a few weeks to get their second booster dose. People ages 65 and older can sign up to receive the vaccine at: https://sugeni.us/WTyk or call public health for assistance at 515-532-3461.
