Appointments book up fast as COVID-19 vaccination site debuts at Oviedo Mall

SEMINOLE COUNTY, Fla. — Seminole County opened one of the state’s first public vaccination sites at Oviedo Mall on Monday. But appointments filled up fast.

Shortly before 12:45 p.m., the county said all available appointments through Jan. 9 had been booked.

Appointments to get the vaccine at the site were limited to those 65 or older.

READ: These Central Florida counties are distributing COVID-19 vaccinations for residents 65 and older; here’s how to make an appointment

Officials said about 50 people will receive the vaccine Monday.

Those interested in getting the vaccine at the site are not required to live in Seminole County.

“It’s a federal asset, so whoever wants it is going to get it,” said Alan Harris, the county’s emergency manager.

READ: Osceola County opens registration for COVID-19 vaccinations

Seminole County is the first of eight counties to open a vaccination distribution site as part of a state pilot program.

The county’s appointment booking site went down for several hours Monday because of the great demand.

“We appreciate your patience as we work through these issues,” the county said in a tweet.

Once more appointments open, you can click here or visit PrepareSeminole.org to register for the vaccine or text COVID19INFO to 888777 for updates.

Channel 9 will also send a notification to your phone once more appointments open. Click here to download the free WFTV news app.

READ: Central Florida labs still looking for COVID-19 vaccine trial participants

Those who snagged an appointment will need to drive to the north portion of the mall. From there, they will be told where to go next.

Officials said a dry run for vaccine distribution is being conducted at the Orange County Convention Center.

They said other counties will soon follow suit, including Lake and Volusia counties.

Watch full coverage on the vaccine rollout live on Channel 9 Eyewitness News at 4.

Watch officials give an update on the vaccination site below:

Video: Seminole County opens vaccine site at Oviedo Mall Seminole County is turning its attention to those 65 and older. On Monday, the county is opening its vaccination site at the Oviedo Mall.

Cox Media Group