Tampa Encourages Gen Z To Think Vaccination Before Vacation

TAMPA, FL — The city of Tampa will be hitting the streets this weekend with a mobile vaccination unit accompanied by disc jockeys and giveaways to vaccinate Gen Z, adults age 18-24.

On Friday and Saturday, May 7 and 8, from 5 to 9 p.m., the mobile unit will be at the intersection of 16th Street and 7th Avenue in Ybor City to give out shot and freebies to ensure that Gen Zers are fully vaccinated before Memorial Day weekend.

Following Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis' suspension of all coronavirus safeguards including the use of masks this week, the "Vaccy (pronounced vak-ee) and Vacay (pronounced vay-k)" promotion was created to reach young adults in Tampa who account for the highest number of positive coronavirus cases in Hillsborough County.

The terms vaccy and vacay are both internet colloquialisms used to reference the words vaccine and vacation, respectively. During the vaccine awareness promotion, people can visit the mobile vaccination unit at the corner of 16th Street and 7th Avenue to enjoy live music provided by well-known local DJs.

Those who take advantage of the free Johnson & Johnson vaccines being offered at the site will also receive a free voucher to one of the nearby establishments while supplies last.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, people are considered fully vaccinated two weeks after a single-dose vaccine, such as Johnson & Johnson's Janssen vaccine.

Mayor Jane Castor and city officials hope the party-like atmosphere will create a venue where healthy members of Generation Z can overcome vaccine reluctance and prevent further spread of COVID-19 by receiving on-the-spot access to information and shots weeks ahead of Memorial Day festivities.

The mobile vaccine unit will start administering shots at noon on both days for those wishing to receive a vaccination at the Ybor site before the Vaccy and Vacay promotion begins.