By Grayson Green
ArkansasCovid.com
EL DORADO, Ark. — COVID-19 vaccine distribution has been making its way through Arkansas. According to the ADH data, Union County has 11% of its population fully vaccinated. Compared to other counties in Arkansas, this percentage is relatively low. Furthermore, as of March 31, Union County was ranked among the lowest counties in fully vaccinated numbers. Low vaccination rates is a pattern in SouthWest Arkansas, other counties in the region including Miller County and Polk County are also ranked low in fully vaccinated residents.
Tammy McCall, administrator for the Union County Department of Health, said the local health unit is not currently administering the vaccine. However, McCall said the National Guard is coming to the local health unit this week to administer COVID-19 vaccines. With more opportunities for vaccination in Union County, vaccine distribution is likely to increase.
Prior to the National Guard’s help, local pharmacies in Union County have been working to administer the COVID-19 vaccine. Tammi Murphy, pharmacist at Melvins Discount Pharmacy in Union County, said the main shot being administered is the Moderna Shot. “We average 60 shots a day,” said Murphy.