The new COVID-19 vaccines are available at local pharmacies in Western North Carolina and at some health departments, including Buncombe County.
“Across the nation we are seeing a continued COVID-19 spread. People who receive COVID-19 vaccines are better protected against severe COVID-19 illness, so we encourage everyone to protect themselves with the newest version of the vaccine,” Buncombe County Medical Director Dr. Jennifer Mullendore said. "We are encouraged by the high volume of clients coming to the Immunization Clinic and we’re doing our best to keep up with the demand. “
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration recently approved the updated vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna that are formulated to target the latest XBB.1.5 subvariant of the coronavirus. According to the data from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services COVID-19 cases have been on the rise since mid-summer, with the latest data showing a slight decrease.
There are several options for vaccination in Buncombe County;
· Walk-in: The BCHHS Immunization Clinic has walk-in hours on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday between 8 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. and on Tuesday and Thursday between 1-4:30 p.m.
· Appointment: To help reduce wait time, individuals may call (828) 250-5096 to schedule an Immunization Clinic appointment. Appointments are available Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 1:00 pm – 4:30 pm and Tuesday and Thursday from 8:00 am – 11:30 am. Please note vaccine doses are not set aside for individuals with appointments, but the clinic monitors vaccine inventory and orders additional inventory.
Henderson County is among those still waiting for their shipment. Public Information officer Andrew Mundhenk says the health department expects to be ready to administer the 2023 COVID vaccine around the second or third week of October.
Another option is to go to Vaccines.gov to find local pharmacies that have the updated COVID-19 vaccines in stock. Pharmacists cannot vaccinate children younger than 3 years of age.
FREE WITH SOME PLANNING
While the vaccine is still free, now that the COVID-19 Public Emergency has expired, it will require a little planning.
Most health insurance plans will cover the COVID-19 vaccine at no cost. For anyone without insurance or anyone with insurance that doesn't cover the cost:
- Adults may be able to get no-cost vaccines through the Bridge Access Program. Use vaccines.gov to search for a provider near you.
- Children 18 or younger can get no-cost vaccines through Vaccines for Children.
The nonprofit Kaiser Family Foundation has provided a cheat sheet with coverage details for those covered by private insurance, Medicare and Medicaid.
