QUINCY, Fla. (WTXL) — More than 500 seniors stopped by the Gadsden County Health Department for the first dose of the COVID-19 Moderna vaccine on Wednesday.
For Patricia Gandy, it meant a little time in exchange for a lot of ease to her concerns.
"My husband and I are both 73, and we've been home since March," said Gandy. "We've done nothing but go to the grocery store and doctors. Haven't seen anybody or been out to do anything. So it's going to be a lot of peace of mind."
"I don't want to catch the virus, and I've been in the house since March not being able to do anything, and I want to protect myself and others," said Linda Hinson, who also received the vaccine.
While the shot itself took just a second, the experience wasn't exactly quick. The health department sent out notices to churches, county commissioners, and the senior center to spread the word for people to make appointments.
The result was hours of waiting, and Gadsden County State Health Director Dr. Adrian Cooksey said the turnout is reassuring that people want to take prevention measures.
"It's exciting, to be honest. We are going into a new year. It's a great tool for eliminating COVID, and it's very rewarding to see the community has embraced this and wanted to get the vaccine," said Cooksey.
Even with their first doses out of the way, many said they still won't take risks until COVID is gone for good.
"I've still got to wear my mask and practice social distancing," said Alynwood Alexander.
"I won't be out and about that much. I'll still wear my mask and continue to take precautions until we get the herd immunity," said Hinson.
If you'd like to find out more, you can reach the Gadsden County DOH COVID helpline at (850) 329- 0685.
If you're a Leon County senior that wants to make an appointment to get a vaccine, call (850) 404-6300, or click here to register.
