Updated COVID Shots See Slow Uptake In Santa Clara County

SAN JOSE, CA — Residents of Santa Clara County have been much slower to get the newest iteration of COVID-19 vaccines than earlier in the pandemic, with just 19 percent of residents having received the latest booster since it rolled out in September, health officials noted Wednesday.

Santa Clara County Public Health said COVID vaccination rates are considerably lower than during previous years, and the gap between demographics is more stark than before, including just 9 percent of Latino residents having received the new booster and 11 percent of Black residents.

"One of Public Health's most important roles is to track systemic factors causing health inequities and to raise the alarm about the impact on Santa Clara County communities," said Dr. Sarah Rudman, the county's deputy health officer. "Culturally centered outreach and education must be strengthened to remove barriers and to connect people to the preventive care they need."

The health department noted the latest booster is the first to be disturbed through the commercial market versus guaranteed no-cost options, and officials say they are working to reach people who face barriers in accessing the updated vaccine that is recommended for everyone 6 months and older. The reformulated boosters are designed to be more effective against modern variants.

"To ensure the public has access to this free vaccination, Public Health has been confirming implementation of the Bridge Access Program at local pharmacies, like CVS, and providing recommendations to corporate leadership and the state of California about improvements necessary," SCCPH wrote Wednesday. "Additionally, Public Health is bringing the vaccine to communities and events where people are likely to face barriers getting vaccinated."

Residents without health insurance or a regular doctor can learn about their options by calling 866-967-4677, check out the Bridge Access Program, or find a clinic offering free or low-cost options for children.