Coronavirus Vaccine Delays Coming On Cape Cod For Seniors

FALMOUTH, MA — Beginning Monday, Massachusetts residents 75 and older become the next group eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. But Barnstable County officials said most seniors will not find an available appointment on Cape Cod immediately because of delays.

County officials said there are two reasons for the delay. Health officials across the region are still finishing vaccinating the rest of the eligible group in Phase 1 of the state's rollout. That group includes first responders, COVID-19-facing health care workers, workers and residents in congregate care settings, and non-COVID-19-facing health care workers.

The other reason is Cape Cod is yet to have an adequate supply of the vaccine.

County officials said all 15 of the Cape's boards of health are committed to vaccinating Phase 2 residents as soon as possible, but the county policy is to register eligible candidates once the vaccine doses are in-hand. So appointments will not be immediately made for resident 75 and older. When that time comes within the first few weeks of February, residents can search locations and register for their initial dose of vaccine on here.

Where and When will the Vaccines Arrive?

The number of vaccinations available on Cape Cod depends on the availability of doses from the federal government and how quickly the state can distribute vaccines to the region.

There are several vaccination sites for Phase 2 being established on Cape Cod, including five regional sites coordinated by Barnstable County. County officials said these are expected to be open by the first or second week of February. Pharmacies and grocery stores have partnered with the Commonwealth and will begin distributing Phase 2 vaccines as well.

"We urge Cape Codders to do three things — to pay attention to where they fit into the phases and sub-phases, expect that there be delays in availability of appointments and operating clinics due to shortages in the vaccine, and to be patient," said Director of Barnstable County Health and Environment Sean O’Brien. "We will make every effort to keep you informed."

See a full list of vaccination sites across Massachusetts.