The COVID-19 vaccination effort at the Berrien County Health Department is in high gear as the eligibility has expanded. Department spokesperson Gillian Conrad tells WSJM News those age 16 and older who have certain health conditions are now eligible, and the vaccine supply is improved.
“We are getting more supply of vaccine every week, which is a good thing because we know that demand will significantly increase now that more people are eligible and wanting to get that vaccine,” Conrad said.
Conrad says the eligibility opens up to everyone 16 and older on April 5. The Berrien County Health Department is updating its website with appointment availability with plans to start doing that on Mondays and Wednesdays so people know when to check. Conrad notes Spectrum Health Lakeland, Walgreen’s, Meijer, and Rite Aid also offer the shots, and she recommends following all avenues. If you’re an unvaccinated senior, the health department would like to hear from you.
“Adults over the age of 65 in Berrien County will continue to be prioritized. If they’ve not already received a vaccine, we really encourage those older adults to call us at the health department and we will be able to schedule them an appointment immediately.”
The number is 269-926-7121. Conrad says the department has been getting some small shipments of the Johnson and Johnson vaccine, and plans to hold community clinics with that shot so people know which vaccine they’re signing up for. However, she says the J&J vaccine is 100% effective at preventing serious or fatal cases of COVID, so any of the three available vaccines is good to get. 30% of Berrien County’s eligible population has received at least one vaccine dose.
