Marion County Pushes To Vaccinate More Residents Against COVID-19

The push to vaccinate more people in Indianapolis continues with a few new strategies. 

In Marion County 39 percent residents have received the COVID-19 vaccine. The county has a goal to have 50 percent of residents vaccinated by July 4.

Marion County Health Department Director Dr. Virgina Caine said a full reopening of the city will be based on a variety of metrics, including vaccination rates, and that community participation is critical.

“Get vaccinated. Get your friends and families vaccinated,” Caine said. “Share your history of vaccination with someone who is unsure.”

Other measures that will determine an end to restrictions include a continued positivity rate below five percent and less than 35 new COVID-19 cases a day.

The city launched new pop up clinics to reach more people and started an incentive program giving away tickets to sporting events. County programs also offer free rides to vaccination appointments and child care in an effort to address social barriers.

Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett said people who are hesitant to get vaccinated are putting themselves at risk.

“Those who remain unvaccinated will still suffer COVID’s worse effects if they become infected, all the while potentially spreading it to others,” Hogsett said.

People who have been vaccinated make up less than one percent of those testing positive for COVID-19.

Caine said she knows many are still hesitant but that the shot is safe. 

“A vaccine that has been rigorously tested and studied and has now been safely administered to millions of people,” Caine said.