70% of the eligible population is now vaccinated
Boulder County, CO -More than 191,000 residents or 70% of the eligible population (16 years and older in the state’s prioritization Phases 1 and 2) in Boulder County has received at least one course of the COVID-19 vaccine in one of the biggest mass vaccination efforts since the polio vaccine in the 1950s.
Boulder County is one of three counties leading the way in vaccinations in Colorado. The county’s planning and operational efforts for this unprecedented vaccination campaign has been ongoing since October 2020. A key component of this strategy has been the strong coordination of over 35 medical providers that committed from the start to ensure all Boulder County community members have equal access to vaccine.
“Vaccination distribution is a complex logistical endeavor and even when there were challenges such as limited vaccine supply, many residents showed interest in getting vaccinated,” said Indira Gujral, Communicable Disease and Emergency Management Division Manager. “It really takes all of us to end this pandemic, and we are grateful to each person who has decided to get vaccinated and helped us reach this milestone. Know that because of your support, we will soon be able to enjoy the things we miss the most.”
It takes many staff hours and volunteers to get vaccines in arms. Since March 30, 2021 Boulder County Public Health has offered 46 vaccination clinics with the help of approximately 2,300 volunteers, who supported 35 full time staff and helped in every aspect of logistics from traffic and parking control, prescreening, registration, vaccination, vaccine support, logistical support and client observation.
Partnerships have also been vital to the continued progress of vaccination. Boulder Community Health held the first vaccination clinic in Boulder County on December 15, 2020. Since then, their team has surpassed 80,000 doses administered to Boulder County community members.
BCPH also works with seven local organizations and community ambassadors to support getting priority populations to vaccination clinics. These community ambassadors are key to reaching residents who experience significant barriers to accessing the vaccine.
“Partnerships are crucial to continue this effort,” Gujral added. “We can’t do this without the support of local organizations who are committed to serving the community and are guiding BCPH in this mass vaccination endeavor.”
While having 70% of the eligible population has been vaccinated is a celebration, there is still 30% of the population who is not vaccinated.
“We know there is a part of the population who is hesitant about getting the COVID-19 vaccine,” said Sheila Davis, Boulder County Public Health Equity Coordinator. “The vaccine is safe, effective and has gone through a very thorough safety process where scientists, researchers and academics monitor safety.”
BCPH offers resources such as COVID-19 Town Halls to organizations that need general information about COVID-19 and the vaccine and well as biweekly Community Updates to provide the community with an update public health response to the pandemic and an opportunity for residents to ask questions.
“The vaccine protects all ages, races, ethnicities, medical conditions, and by getting vaccinated we protect our family, friends and the entire community,” Davis added. “Our next milestone is in your hands. If you have not been vaccinated, make your appointment today! If you have questions or concerns reach out to Public Health.”
For more information about COVID-19 clinics and medical providers, resources and general information, visit Bouldercounty.org. For questions and information, call the Boulder Call Center at 720-776-0822.