The COVID-19 pandemic, exacerbated by the Delta variant, continues to impact our community. We have made progress in the vaccination effort. As of Aug. 20, more than 45% of Greene County residents 12 and older were vaccinated. To protect more of our neighbors from the severe illness that COVID-19 can cause, the Springfield-Greene County Health Department has expanded its vaccine outreach in Springfield neighborhoods with the FinishStrong417 campaign.
“The more people who are vaccinated, the safer we all are,” said Director of Health Katie Towns. “But we also understand that many people still have questions about the vaccine, and we want to provide every opportunity possible to get those questions answered.”
Over the next several months, many throughout the community will hear from the Health Department, at their doors, over the phone, and through text messages. During these interactions, residents will have the opportunity to ask questions about the vaccines and have their concerns addressed. Making these one-on-one connections will allow us to have meaningful conversations about the COVID-19 vaccines and promote vaccination clinics occurring at centers, fire stations, parks, churches, and other venues within our city’s neighborhoods.
Working at the neighborhood level also allows us to provide focused outreach to different populations in our community. For instance, vaccine information and promotional materials were made available in Spanish in the neighborhood around Iglesia Cristiana Casa de Oracion, where the Health Department then held a vaccination clinic.
A vaccination event like the clinic at Iglesia Cristiana Casa de Oracion or at a fire station might administer a couple dozen vaccines. This is far different than the 6,131 vaccines provided at the Mega Vaccination Event in early April. But through clinics like these, we have been able to reach thousands of people. Ever dose administered brings us know step closer to getting back to normal. Vaccinating one person can help keep them safe and protects those around them.
If you haven’t gotten vaccinated yet or you’re looking for information on third doses of Pfizer or Moderna, head to vaccine417.com or call the COVID-19 Call Center at 417-874-1211. This fall we plan to continue providing vaccinations throughout our community, but we need your help! If your neighborhood would like to host a vaccination clinic, let us know by emailing coronavirus@springfieldmo.gov or calling 417-874-1211. Whether it’s part of an event or a standalone clinic we want to work with you. If a clinic is on the schedule in your area, help us get the word out! Our community’s neighborhood associations have been a value partner in promoting these events.