GREEN COVE SPRINGS – The Florida Department of Health in Clay County wants to remind residents that while the COVID-19 vaccine is currently available for Phase 1a priority populations, the best way to reduce the spread of COVID-19 is to avoid being exposed to the virus, and avoid exposing other people.

“I would like to stress that now is not the time to become complacent. Initial doses of vaccine are limited in quantity and are designated for the Phase 1 priority population only. This means the vaccine is still several months away from being available to the general public,” stated Heather Huffman, Health Officer and Administrator for the Florida Department of Health in Clay County.

DOH– Clay and Clay County Emergency Management opened the COVID-19 Vaccination Point of Distribution on Dec. 29, with initial doses provided to high-risk front-line health care workers such as Paramedics and Department of Health staff who will be providing direct care at the COVID-19 vaccination POD. Through Jan. 3, DOH Clay and Clay County Emergency Management distributed 233 initial doses of the two-dose vaccine. On Jan. 4, the POD opened for Phase 1a priority population, via appointment at Alert.ClayCountyGov.com. The POD has the capability to provide up to 200 COVID-19 vaccines per day and will expand to up to 400 doses daily when providing the second shot in the two-dose series.

“It is up to everyone to reduce the spread of the virus by practicing everyday healthy habits. Avoid crowds, practice social distancing, wash your hands, wear masks in public, and cover coughs and sneezes,” continued Huffman. DOH Clay recommends individuals take the following precautions to reduce the likelihood of contracting and spreading the virus:

1. Stay 6 feet away from others. Remember that some people without symptoms may be able to spread virus.

2. Avoid crowds. Being in crowds like in restaurants, bars, fitness centers or movie theaters puts you at higher risk for COVID-19.

3. Wear a mask over your nose and mouth. Everyone should wear a mask in public settings and when around people who don’t live in your household. A mask is not a substitute for social distancing.

4. Wash your hands often. Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after you have been in a public place or after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing. If you do not have access to soap and water, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.

5. Cover coughs and sneezes. Always cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze or use the inside of your elbow. Immediately wash your hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and water.

6. Clean and disinfect. Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily. This includes tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets and sinks.