The Voice of Blythewood & Fairfield County

Vaccine slowdown at Prisma Health walk-in sites

COLUMBIA – For those who are over 65 years of age or otherwise qualify for the 1A phase of SC DHEC’s COVID-19 vaccination schedule and have not so far been able to make an appointment, the wait may get longer. Prisma Health announced on Monday that it will not hold walk-in vaccinations for the remainder of this week.

The pause stems from the company receiving only a portion of its vaccine supply this week in the Upstate. The large number of 65-69 year olds without appointments showing up at vaccination sites on Monday exacerbated the slowdown.

Prisma is reported to have used all of its walk-in vaccination supply for the week, and there is some uncertainty as to whether more will be received this week.

According to county officials, there has been an overwhelming response of the 65+ age group to Prisma sites, like the National Guard site in Gamecock Park, where those with and without appointments found an easy drive-thru experience where shots were administered on a first-come, first-served basis. A valid South Carolina driver’s license and other qualifying identification (such as a medicare card) were required.

Those who have now received their first dose of the vaccine are being asked to make appointments for second shots through Prisma Health MyChart.

For more information on Prisma Health’s vaccination sites, go to prismahealth.org or call 833-277-4762.