Ellis County demobilizes vaccine hub

ELLIS COUNTY – A recent article at https://247wallst.com/tracking-coronavirus-in-texas/ touted Ellis County as the most dangerous county in the Dallas/Fort Worth area for COVID-19.  

With a flat statistic such as that, one might wonder why Ellis County is closing up their vaccine hub.

There are a few ways to consider that question and the statistic from the recent news report.

Ellis County has the most COVID-19 cases per capita – however that comes in at 310, thankfully a very small number – with Kaufman County just behind at 255 deaths.

There was no explanation regarding age or existing health issues relating to these deaths. 

Now, due to the fact the Ellis County Vaccine Hub has had such a decreased demand for COVID-19 vaccines, the Ellis County Emergency Management has begun to demobilize its Vaccine Hub at the Waxahachie Senior Activity Center. 

The Hub will administer first doses through Friday, May 14 – but only second doses starting Wednesday, May 19 until final demobilization.

“As County Judge, my primary job is to keep our community safe,” Ellis County Judge Todd Little said. “Through the valiant efforts of many, we have successfully completed this public-private partnership. From healthcare providers to local governments, and volunteers to first responders, we accomplished this monumental task with remarkable efficiency and will forever be grateful to every person who participated.”

The Vaccine Hub is scheduled to officially demobilize on June 4. 

After the Hub closes, individuals desiring a COVID-19 vaccine will have to receive one through Baylor Scott & White or other private healthcare providers. The last call for scheduling vaccine appointments through the Hub is the week of May 10th to 14th. 

After demobilization, Baylor Scott & White will assume control of the county’s surplus Pfizer vaccines. Patients will still be able to schedule appointments for both first and second vaccine doses through Baylor Scott & White by following the instructions at https://www.bswhealth.com/covid-vaccine. Texas DSHS will also distribute more vaccines to other healthcare providers such as Ennis Regional Medical Center, Methodist Family Health Center at Midlothian, Methodist Family Health Center at Waxahachie, U.S. Drug Mart, Red Oak Drug, and Walgreens.

“This Vaccine Initiative has protected the most vulnerable, preserved our healthcare system & resources, and given our citizens the confidence of knowing that in times of need, our community can and will overcome,” said Little. 

Since the Ellis County Vaccine Initiative began on February 2, there have been 73,143 vaccines administered by the Vaccine Hub. Through other mobilized efforts, up to 104,000 Ellis County vaccines have been administered – including full vaccination for 66.41% of the population aged 65 and over.