Jefferson County Health Department Board of Trustees voted in approval on Monday, March 15, to rent a space for COVID-19 vaccination clinics. The 60,000 sq ft facility located at 1275 North Truman Blvd. in Festus (previously the old Shop N Save) owned by Jones Festus Properties, LLC will be leased to Jefferson County Health Department (JCHD) for 6 months beginning March 15 for $4,000 a month plus utilities.
“Data has shown that Jefferson County is falling behind in COVID-19 vaccine distribution to eligible populations and we intend to improve that as soon as possible,” states Jefferson County Health Department Director, Kelley Vollmar. In addition to clinics in High Ridge, DeSoto, and Arnold, a clinic site in Festus ensures that Jefferson County Health Department is providing COVID-19 vaccine in all four corners of the county.
According to Preparedness Coordinator, Jeana Vidacak, the larger space at this facility provides several benefits for hosting clinics. Because of the additional square footage, JCHD can provide 1,500 doses per day and possibly 2,400 doses a day with the help of Missouri National Guard. The space will allow for 2 clinics to run simultaneously, which is beneficial for running both first and second dose clinics on the same day. The building and parking lot are both ADA compliant providing greater accessibility for patients to easily obtain their vaccination.
“We know there are tens of thousands of Jefferson County residents who are eligible and interested in receiving the vaccine. As public health, it is our job to obtain vaccine and distribute it within the community as quickly and effectively as possible.”
By acquiring a larger space for clinics, the throughput for vaccine provided by JCHD drastically increases from 1,500 a week to potentially 4,000+ a week. To accomplish this, an additional staff will be hired as well to work these clinics including medical and non-medical staff. JCHD Board of Trustees also approved the hiring of up to 60 temporary staff utilizing staffing agencies that have been vetted by the State and given State Contract approval.
Individuals interested in receiving the COVID-19 vaccine are encouraged to complete the form provided on the health department website www.jeffcohealth.org called ‘COVID-19 Vaccine Interest Survey’. JCHD will utilize those survey responses by state ordered tier to reach out to residents for appointments. Older adults or those without internet access should call the JCHD COVID-19 Vaccine Registration Line at 636-789-8941.