Tempe Ups Outreach Efforts To Area With Lowest Vaccine Rates

Press release from the City of Tempe:

June 23, 2021

Keeping community health a top priority, the City of Tempe is intensifying its COVID-19 outreach to areas that have a lower vaccination rate.

Since Maricopa County started tracking vaccine rates by zip code, 85281 in north Tempe has had the lowest vaccination rate in Tempe. As of June 15, those eligible in the zip code had a first dose vaccination rate of 45.6%, about 24% lower than 85284, Tempe's most vaccinated area. The 85281 zip code is also Tempe's youngest area. Across the country, younger people have lower vaccination rates.

Based on this data, the City of Tempe has increased efforts to encourage residents in 85281 to get vaccinated.

"Vaccinations are key to protecting our whole community," Tempe Mayor Corey Woods said. "If you aren't vaccinated, you are at risk, as are those around you who aren't vaccinated. Don't wait. Get the vaccine now and curb your risk."

Postcards are being mailed to thousands of people in 85281. Signs are going up in 16 parks in the zip code this week. The marquee at Tempe Center for the Arts and reach screens at 85281 recreation centers will flash colorful information. Even the digital directories on Mill Avenue will share with people how safe, free and easy it is to protect themselves and their families by getting a vaccine. Just text the zip code to 438829 to get nearby vaccine locations, a free ride there and free childcare while getting the shots.

Safe. Free. Easy.

Postcards in English and Spanish are being mailed to thousands of 85281 residents this week to encourage people to get vaccinated against COVID-19 and to stop the spread of the virus.

Numbers prove the point

The timing of this effort is important. Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows that states with a lower than 50% vaccination rate experience significantly higher numbers of COVID-19 cases - sometimes double that of states that have 70% vaccination rates.

As of June 15, Arizona had a 48.5% vaccination rate and Maricopa County was at 44.6%.

Another significant factor is the increasing emergence of the delta variant in Arizona. Vaccines will protect people against this version of the virus, but they are only 33% effective with one shot. Both doses need to be given in order for full protection. The delta variant is spreading most widely among younger people. Tempe's 85281 is the city's youngest zip code.

Encourage a friend

Residents are encouraged to help their friends get the information they need to find vaccinations. Spread the word to neighbors and friends about the safe, free and easy COVID-19 vaccine. Get more details at tempe.gov/coronavirus.

This press release was produced by the City of Tempe. The views expressed here are the author's own.