HENRICO COUNTY, Va. -- Efforts to vaccinate seniors against COVID-19 continued this weekend as thousands of folks got their second dose at the Richmond Raceway.
Officials said about 5,000 people in the Richmond-Henrico Health District ages 65 and up rolled up their sleeves at the mass vaccination event.
This was the first group of people, outside of first responders and teachers, to get their second shot, according to Henrico County leaders.
Among them was Anne Brunner. The 75-year-old is making big plans now that she has had her second dose and will be fully vaccinated.
“It's a tremendous peace of mind. I feel like in a week, I'll be fully protected,” Brunner said. “So pretty soon in March I'm going to head to Tennessee to see my daughter, the family and the grandchildren.”
Virginia's vaccine coordinator said Friday that the Commonwealth is getting a boost in weekly shipmentsstarting next week.
As a result, about 180,000 first doses will be delivered weekly to Virginia.
COVID-19 Precautions
Most patients with COVID-19 have mild to moderate symptoms. However, in a small proportion of patients, COVID-19 can lead to more severe illness, including death, particularly among those who are older or those who have chronic medical conditions.
COVID-19 spreads primarily through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
Symptoms include fever, cough, and difficulty breathing. Symptoms appear within 14 days of being exposed to an infectious person.
Virginia health officials urged the following precautions:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
- Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer only if soap and water are not available.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Avoid contact with sick people.
- Avoid non-essential travel.