Dear Patient:
I hope you are well. Over half of people over 65 have been vaccinated in our country and cases continue to decline, albeit more slowly. There are now 38 patients hospitalized at NCH, a significant decline. Please see the attached chart showing the non-existence for flu this year and the prevalence of COVID as published by NCH.
Vaccines
If you are under 65 with renal failure, diabetes, immunosuppressive disease, CHF, coronary artery disease, COPD or asthma, you may qualify for the next phase of vaccination and NCH is giving shots to these vulnerable populations. Please note these criteria are very specific, and, if you fit one, contact us for a referral.
I know for some it has been frustrating, but it will improve as the vaccine supply does. Please note: only go to the approved sites below for appointments. No legitimate site will charge for the vaccine. Below are the options for vaccines available to those of you 65 and over:
- Walmart and Sam’s Club – www.walmart.com/COVIDvaccine and www.samsclub.com/covid (sites also in Lee County). Availability pending; visit websites to sign up for free guest accounts if needed and check for upcoming registrations.
- Winn-Dixie – www.winndixie.com/pharmacy/covid-vaccine. Collier location booked for the first day, potential availability at other sites. Check the website for details and future appointment notices.
- CVS; https://www.cvs.com/vaccine/intake/store/covid-screener/covid-qns
Other Vaccine Resources
Marco Island Vaccine Distribution: Full time and seasonal residents of Marco Island who are 65 and older can pre-register at any time by visiting marcoisland.typeform.com/to/dHSgaQze.
Florida State vaccine website link: https://myvaccine.fl.gov/
Collier County Appointments: Registration links
By phone: 1-866-201-4885
Publix receives vaccines weekly. Register at https://www.publix.com/covid-vaccine
East Coast of Florida: There are available times at the Hard Rock Casino or the Florida Marlins Stadium periodically. You will need to call 786-629-5752 to make the appointment.
COVID-19 Information
Testing sites in Collier County include: Advanced Medical Center (239-566-7676), Vava Clinic (239-331-8520), the Health Department (239-252-8200), EPN Urgent Care (239-775-2300), CVS (239-261-6444 and 239-775-5450), the VA Clinic (239-659-9188) and Pebblebrook Pharmacy (239-353-0800).
Updated NCH COVID information page: https://nchmd.org/news-and-events/newsroom/coronavirus
Sincerely,
Paul Jones MD