Public health dept. opens vaccines to anyone over 16
Wendy Alexander/The Madera Tribune
Cars line up at the Madera Department of Public Health’s drive-through vaccination event on Saturday. More than 300 vaccinations were given and the department plans to dole out 480 more on Saturday, and can fill as many as 600 if that many get registered by then.
The Madera County Department Public Health (MCDPH) is expanding eligibility for COVID-19 vaccines to everyone 16 and over effective April 2.
Under this new expansion, anyone age 16 and over who lives or works in Madera County may register for and receive a vaccine.
Those eligible may register for a variety of appointment choices next week at Madera County Health and Social Services Campus (1604 Sunrise), Valley Children’s Hospital or the Madera Fairgrounds. Registration for any of these sites can be completed at www.maderacounty.com/covid19vaccine or by calling 311. Eligibility for the vaccine may be different at other sites within the county such as pharmacies or other providers.
Statewide, Governor Newsom announced that vaccines will be expanded to those over 16 as of April 15. Madera County is moving ahead of the state in an effort to maximize vaccine availability.
“Distributing this vaccine as widely as possible in our community is going to help us reach our goal of curbing COVID-19,” MCDPH Heath Officer Simon Paul, M.D. said. “We urge everyone who can receive the vaccine to do so. It’s the best way to protect your family and friends from the virus.”
To register for an appointment using the statewide MyTurn system, users should choose the “50-64” age range button on the first eligibility information page of MyTurn. This is necessary due to a limitation of that system. Users should then enter their actual date of birth, occupation, and other information in the following MyTurn. Eligibility for those 16 and over is only applicable for Madera County vaccination sites.
Residents who are ages 16 and 17 may receive the Pfizer vaccine. Moderna and Johnson & Johnson vaccines are only approved for those age 18 and over at this time. Those under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at the time of their appointment.
Visit www.maderacounty.com/covid19vaccine for more information and regular updates. For questions, please utilize the community feedback form or call Madera County 311.
