San Mateo County Reaches Milestone: 1 Million COVID Vaccinations

SAN MATEO COUNTY, CA — San Mateo County hit a milestone right before the state of California opened up its economy on Tuesday, reaching 1 million COVID-19 vaccinations over the weekend.

As of Sunday, the county had administered 1,002,566 vaccine doses, or just over 84 percent of the eligible population over the age of 12.

“The residents of San Mateo County and California have done a tremendous job doing their parts to get vaccinated as total shots in the arm now total over 1 million in the county and 40 million in the state,” David Canepa, President of the San Mateo County Board of Supervisors, said in a news release. “June 15 is the day that everyday life returns to normal and that is cause to celebrate. It’s time we can ditch these damn masks in most settings.”

The county utilized sites at the San Francisco International Airport and the San Mateo County Event Center during the earlier stages of vaccinations, and then shifted to targeted, smaller locations for harder to reach communities.

Over 560,500 individuals in the county have received at least one shot and over 477,500 people are fully vaccinated.

Beginning Tuesday, Californians who are fully vaccinated can stop wearing masks outdoors and indoors with some exceptions like on public transit and in schools. In a news release, San Mateo County officials said it will require masks in county offices.

“What’s important to remember is that not everyone can receive a vaccine due to health considerations, and children under 12 years of age are not eligible,” County Manager Mike Callagy said. “We still need to protect these individuals so, if you are asked, please wear your face mask. Be patient. Be kind. Let’s not leave anyone behind.”