Washington County Public Health is pausing first dose COVID-19 vaccine clinics due to a marked decrease in demand.

The department announced Thursday that due to a difficulty in filling their vaccine clinics and an increase in vaccine availability at retail pharmacies, they are declining their vaccine allocation for this week. Moderna second-dose, otherwise known as boost dose clinics will continue as scheduled through May for those that have previously received their prime dose from WCPH. The department will no longer offer prime dose clinics unless demand increases, and they will continue to communicate with their vaccine distribution partners to determine if they have the needs for vaccine allocation and make decisions each week.

Hy-Vee and Beans pharmacies in Washington, One to One Pharmacy in Kalona, and Pharmacy on 8th in Wellman continue to receive vaccines from the federal pharmacy program and offer vaccines at their locations. As of Thursday the fully vaccinated rate in Washington County is 30.7%, and the county must strive for 70-85% to reach herd immunity and prevent additional spread and variants. Those who haven’t been vaccinated are encouraged to do so as soon as possible, and any questions can be directed to the public health office.