Can’t find a COVID booster dose? Blame the labor shortage

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WHITE BEAR LAKE, Minnesota (FOX 9) – This week, Minnesota health officials launched a campaign encouraging people to receive their COVID-19 booster shots in time for holiday gatherings later this month.

Only one problem: Appointments are hard to find in Twin Cities area pharmacies and other vaccination sites. At a community vaccination clinic at Century College in White Bear Lake – where Governor Tim Walz visited on Thursday – signs hung on the doors: “No more appointments available.

More than 1.3 million Minnesotans have already received a booster, or 38.3% of those fully vaccinated, ranking second in the country. Health Commissioner Jan Malcolm said the problem was not a lack of vaccines but a shortage of workers to put them in people’s arms.

“The vaccine supply itself is still very strong,” Malcolm told reporters when asked about the frustrations. “What we’re facing quite frankly is the same workforce challenge you hear from our hospitals, from our long-term care providers, from public health. There is a shortage of qualified vaccinators. “

Minnesota has asked the federal government for help with its vaccination efforts, she said, adding that people should check state and federal vaccine research websites for availability near them. .

The United States Food and Drug Administration approved the Pfizer recall for 16 and 17 year olds on Thursday. Adults have been eligible for weeks. The boosters are not yet available for the youngest.

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