Vaccine is widely available and easier than ever to get, often by just walking in
PHOENIX ‒ More than 3 million people in Arizona have received at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccine, well more than half of the population age 16 and older. With plenty of supply now throughout the state, it’s easier than ever to roll up your sleeve to protect yourself, your family, and your community.
“From state vaccination sites to local pharmacies to other neighborhood providers, COVID-19 vaccines are available to everyone who wants them, often by simply walking in at your convenience,” Governor Doug Ducey said. “I’m proud to be one of the 3 million-plus Arizonans who have received one of these safe, highly effective, and free vaccines. I encourage everyone across the state to join the millions of Arizonans who have rolled up their sleeve.”
As of this morning, 5,233,507 doses of COVID-19 vaccine have been administered to 3,007,184 individuals, including 2,416,859 who are fully vaccinated. Nearly 1.5 million of those doses have been administered at state mass-vaccination sites in the greater Phoenix area, Tucson, Yuma, and Flagstaff, all of which accommodate walk-ins but continue to offer the convenience of appointments.
COVID-19 is still infecting Arizonans, with 820 cases and 24 deaths added today to the Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) data dashboard.
“We know through rigorous trials and federal reviews that each COVID-19 vaccine is safe and extremely effective at preventing serious cases and deaths,” said ADHS Director Dr. Cara Christ. “What we are still learning is the long-term health effects on those among those who recover from severe cases of COVID-19, including young people. It’s a mistake to assume you are safe just because the percentages show you at lower risk of severe outcomes from coronavirus.”
Many sites across Arizona now offer COVID-19 vaccines, including grocery store pharmacies and standalone pharmacies. This week, doctors’ offices and other neighborhood healthcare providers were able to start directly ordering vaccine from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
As early as next week, the federal government is expected to approve use of the Pfizer vaccine for those 12 and older, expanding from 16 and older. State-run sites offer the Pfizer vaccine, as do some pharmacies. ADHS offers a map of vaccination sites at azdhs.gov/FindVaccine that lists which vaccine types are offered at each.
“If you’re at the grocery store, it can pay off to swing by the pharmacy and see if they have walk-in availability for COVID-19 vaccination,” Dr. Christ said. “When the age range for Pfizer expands to 12 and up, I encourage you to make it a family affair. The more people who are vaccinated against COVID-19, the faster we can curb the spread and continue returning to normal life.”
Appointments for state sites and many others are available at podvaccine.azdhs.gov. Those without computer access or needing extra help registering can call 1-844-542-8201 to be connected with someone who can assist in English or Spanish. Appointments aren’t required at state sites, but can reduce the duration of your visit because registration is completed in advance.
To learn more about COVID-19 vaccines and vaccination, please visit azdhs.gov/COVID19Vaccines.
