This story has been updated. 2/10/2021, 12:23 p.m.
ALEXANDRIA, VA-Many are waiting for the COVID-19 vaccine. The Alexandria Health Department (AHD) recently found an error in the system used to schedule appointments. It resulted in people receiving phone calls “out of order” in the 65-74 age group, according to Alexandria eNews.
To resolve the error, AHD sent out emails regarding appointment scheduling on Sunday, Feb. 7. Residents who have already received their first dose of the vaccine are advised to ignore these emails.
Moving forward, AHD will rely on census information for efficiency. With the data, they will be able to boost access to the vaccine and better prioritize residents within groups. Those in the top third of census tracts experiencing health inequities will receive access to schedule an appointment several days in advance.
CVS Pharmacy
The Virginian Pilot reported yesterday that CVS would begin offering the vaccine at 36 locations throughout Virginia on Friday, Feb. 12. Appointments for shots were planned initially to be scheduled on a first-come, first-serve basis. Due to demand, the vaccine will be given to people 65 and up only. The CVS website indicates that appointments are fully booked.
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If you use the census information what happens to people who have recently moved to Alexandria and would not appear on the latest census for this area?
I got a call almost 2 weeks ago to get my shot but could not as I had gotten my Shingles 2nd shot the day before. I asked if I could schedule 2 weeks later and was told I could not. I got the email from the City onSunday and tried to schedule but it only allowed one day to schedule 2/9. I still had to wait til the 13th – 2 full weeks after the Shingles vaccine. I know the City is doing the best they can but I wanted to share my experience hoping they can add more future dates when candidates are contacted to get their shots. God speed to all!