Cedar Rapids, Iowa – Despite the release of a new vaccination to protect against the Omicron strain of COVID-19, fewer than 50,000 Johnson County residents have received it this year.
This leaves approximately 110,000 people unvaccinated.
Johnson County is witnessing a minor increase in COVID-19 case numbers, so public health officials are advising individuals to be vaccinated right away.
“The first vaccine was given in December of 2020 until today’s date… a lot has changed, certainly our recommendations,” said Sam Jarvis, Manager of Johnson County Public Health’s Community Health Division.
However, Johnson County is not alone in its struggle to vaccinate its inhabitants.
The average immunization rate across the state is only 15.7%, which could indicate that people are tired of the multiple flu and COVID-19 vaccines that have been released since the pandemic began.
However, one University of Iowa Health Care worker believes this is not the reason most individuals have not received it.
“I don’t think they’re burnt out, I just think it’s their political beliefs, I think it’s a huge cause, and they just don’t understand fully preventing and helping others,” remarked Caleb Kusserow, a Patient Care Technician at Stead Family Children’s Hospital.
Another University of Iowa student stated that he did not see the necessity to get vaccinated.
“I just don’t see it as vital for me. I am not truly immunocompromised. There is no one around me who I believe is immunocompromised. said Anthony Furrule.
According to Jarvis, barriers can also include a lack of education or access to vaccinations.
This is why he urges that every Iowan, regardless of county, consult with a healthcare provider to determine what is best.
Source: A large majority of Iowans remain unvaccinated for COVID-19 and the flu
