The pace of COVID-19 vaccinationsis ramping up quickly across Kentucky, with large regional centers and pharmacies providing more access.
But one of the challenges is how to vaccinate the homebound elderly.
Many Kentuckians who are homebound are in the current priority groups for vaccinations. That includes the 1B group for those over age 70, and the 1C group for those 60 and older.
The challenges for many of these older adults include a lack of computer skills, internet access or transportation.
Matt Hunt is District Director for the Barren River District Health Department.
“We are going to focus on homebound individuals and underserved populations in general," said Hunt. "What will really allow us to do that moving forward is the approval of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine. It’s a little more difficult with the Moderna, as well as Pfizer.”
The Johnson & Johnson vaccine is a one-shot vaccination, while the Moderna and Pfizer vaccines require two shots.
In a recent news briefing, Gov. Andy Beshear said planning is in progress to vaccinate Kentuckians who are homebound.
“We are working on mobile units to reach those individuals, maybe even in their homes themselves,” said Beshear.
The governor said the state currently has transportation options available to vaccination sites in an 11-county region including Boyle, Casey, and Washington.
