Unexpectedly, Floridia opens COVID-19 vaccines for all adults

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The opening of vaccinations at every age 16 and over on Floridian Monday has led to lines in some parts of the state, but not at the largest site in Jacksonville: Gateway Mall.

Those under 18 need to go to a site that offers the Pfizer vaccine, as Moderna and Johnson & Johnson vaccines are currently only allowed for people 18 and older. The state also requires 16- and 17-year-olds to be accompanied by a parent or guardian to sign a consent form. (Click here for a printable version of the form.)

“I felt it had to be done to protect others,” said 17-year-old Jalen Bell as she left Gateway Mall. “I think it’s something that shows you’re taking it seriously.”

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Dozens of people were queuing when the FEMA Gateway site opened Monday morning. No meetings are required on federal websites.

“It was easy,” said Tamika Hightown, who brought her 16-year-old son to the Gateway on Monday morning. “You go in and follow the instructions and it was inside and out. It was easy.”

WHERE, HOW TO MAKE A TAX: Vaccination availability in Northeast Florida | IN CONNECTION WITH: Where 16, 17 year olds can get COVID-19 photos in Jacksonville

All government or federal-run sites – including Gateway Mall and Regency Square Mall – currently offer the two-dose Pfizer vaccine, although that will change at Johnson & Johnson on Tuesday. State-run sites – including Regency Square Mall and most county health departments – are expected to continue to offer the Pfizer vaccine.

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The Gateway site and satellite sites will continue to administer second doses of Pfizer vaccine to people who received the first dose at these sites.

Gateway can vaccinate up to 3,000 people a day, but on average it is less than half that number.

On Monday, FEMA’s mobile vaccination unit opens at Abyssinian Missionary Baptist Church on Interstate Center Drive on Jacksonville’s Northside. Johnson & Johnson vaccines are available until 7 pm for anyone over the age of 18.

The age requirement in Florida fell from 65 years and more in January to 60 years in February, 50 in March and 40 and over last week. The age limits have dropped to the limits of the guidelines authorized by the FD.

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Max Laguerre is 20 years old and is delighted to finally be eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine.

“I’ve been out most of the year, so being able to go out and not have to worry about COVID will be a great thing,” Laguerre said.

On average, Gateway officials say the entire process takes only about 30 minutes, which includes an observation period of 15 minutes after receiving the shot.

The Johnson and Johnson vaccine will become more available starting Tuesday, replacing Pfizer at the largest vaccination site – Gateway.

The Johnson & Johnson vaccine seems to be a popular choice because it is a single dose.

“It simply came to our notice then. It was easy, “said Tina Corporan.

Corporan received his Johnson and Johnson vaccine Sunday at the downtown library.

“I did it for my husband. He has health problems that concern me and I want to make sure I don’t bring them home “, said Corporan.

All those who received the first dose of Pfizer at the Gateway will receive the second dose at the Oceanway Community Center or Carver Recreational Center.