By Kathy Chouteau
Contra Costa County has marked a momentous milestone in the fight against COVID-19 by administering 1,010,267 COVID-19 vaccines as of April 24, according to Contra Costa Health Services (CCHS). The vaccines administered throughout the County were performed by CCHS, as well as local hospitals, pharmacies and other community healthcare providers far in advance of the initial goal date of July 4 and a month before the revised goal of Memorial Day.
At this time, nearly 630,000 County residents are at least partially vaccinated—67.8 of the County’s 16-and-older population—and almost 430,000 are fully vaccinated—46.4 percent.
“This is absolutely a testament to our community’s ability to come together during a crisis to protect their loved ones and reduce the spread of a dangerous virus,” said Diane Burgis, chair of the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors. “I would like to thank every resident who has done their part and encourage us all to make a healthy choice and get vaccinated.”
In January—at a time when the COVID-19 vaccine was limited in supply and eligibility was designated to healthcare workers and County residents at the highest risk of illness or death from an infection—CCHS Director Anna Roth announced the countywide goal of 1 million vaccines administered by July 4. As vaccine opportunities in the County expanded, this goal was later updated to Memorial Day/May 31.
According to CCHS, Contra Costa health providers currently can deliver approximately 90,000 doses each week. An abundant supply of vaccines from the state and federal governments has enabled the County to swiftly immunize about two-thirds of eligible residents.
“I am grateful for the tireless efforts of healthcare and emergency workers across our county. The partnership between our team at CCHS and our community partners makes our county safer from COVID-19,” said Roth. “The pandemic is not over yet, but we are much closer to stopping the virus because of their efforts.”
Those age 16 or older who live or work in Contra Costa County can receive a COVID-19 vaccine free of charge by scheduling an online appointment at cchealth.org/coronavirus or by calling 1-833-829-2626.
To explore opportunities at vaccine clinics that don’t require an appointment, click here, and to learn more about a new mobile vaccination service for homebound residents, click here.
