Push to encourage all San Diegans eligible for COVID vaccine to get the shot
State leaders are aiming to get at least 75% of all Californians 16 and over vaccinated, in order to achieve herd immunity
By Richard Allyn (Reporter)
SAN DIEGO COUNTY, Calif. — A major milestone in the vaccine rollout: all Californians 50 or older can now get the COVID-19 shot.
While many of us are more than happy to get a vaccine, there are others who are still hesitant, particularly in underserved communities that have been hit hardest by the virus.
More than 35% of all San Diegans have received at least one COVID vaccine shot, and more than 21% are now fully vaccinated.
The ultimate goal is to get at least three-quarters of San Diegans 16 and over vaccinated for herd immunity.
Although some San Diegans have already made up their minds on the subject.
«There are many questions,» said San Diegan Skai Tong, who made it clear that she will not be persuaded, opting not to get the COVID-19 vaccine once she is eligible.
«We are entitled to choice,» she added. «We are entitled to what we feel.»
Tong is not alone. In a new study by the Kaiser Family Foundation, 20% of Americans – down from 22% a month earlier – said they would definitely not get the vaccine, or only get it if required by their job or school.
State and county leaders, though, are working to change minds.
Governor Gavin Newsom received his Johnson & Johnson vaccine in front of the cameras Thursday, while San Diego County’s public health officer Dr. Wilma Wooten got hers earlier.
