ORLANDO, Fla. — On Sunday Gov. Ron DeSantis held a press conference at the Lynn Haven Senior Center highlighting COVID-19 vaccination sites at seven locations across the state in partnership with local churches.
DeSantis said each site has the capacity to administer 500 doses of the vaccine per day.
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The pilot program is expected to expand as the state continues to receive additional vaccinations. DeSantis directed the Division of Emergency Management and Department of Health to identify places of worship and other locations in underserved communities where the COVID-19 vaccine may be administered.
Currently, appointments are being scheduled through the faith-based organizations. Walkups will not be accepted.
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On Saturday afternoon, Gov. Ron DeSantis provided an update on COVID-19 vaccine distribution efforts here in Florida.
DeSantis released the video message on his YouTube channel. The message described the latest COVID-19 vaccine distribution efforts and also highlighted steps the state is taking to increase vaccinations and put Florida’s seniors first.
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According to the governor, Florida is in its fourth week of vaccine distribution and doses have been delivered to all 67 county health departments as well as hospitals in every region across the state.
DeSantis went on to say that Florida is putting seniors first and continues prioritizing them to receive the vaccine to help battle the pandemic.
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According to the governor, in order to assist with the administration of Florida’s new vaccination locations, the Division of Emergency Management is hiring 1,000 contract nurses to support the state’s expanded effort.
On Tuesday, DeSantis announced a pilot program to distribute COVID-19 vaccines in 22 Publix stores in 3 counties across the state. Those counties are Marion, Citrus and Hernando.
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DeSantis stopped by several Publix vaccination sites in Brooksville and Spring Hill on Saturday afternoon.