Santa Barbara County Public health officials say they are starting COVID-19 vaccinations for residents who are 75 years old, or older. Officials say they are taking the step because the state directed counties to prioritize those 65 or older.
The county has more than 32,000 residents who are over 75. They are considered to be among those at highest risk for the virus. Then, as soon as more vaccine is available, everyone over 65 will be able to get shots.
The biggest hangup to the effort is having limited vaccine supplies. Frontline health care workers, and nursing home residents have been in the first tier for shots, but many of them have already received at least their first of the two shots needed for protection.
Santa Barbara County residents over 75 can go online now to schedule an appointment for a shot.
Link to Santa Barbara County vaccination website: https://bit.ly/3qmzSjq
