OCALA, Fla.—Marion County residents ages 65 and older will soon be able to get their first COVID-19 vaccination. The Department of Health in Marion County is slated to receive its first shipment of COVID-19 vaccine for residents ages 65 and older this week and is starting the signup process for people who would like to be vaccinated.

To request vaccination by the health department, go to Everbridge.net and complete and submit the requested information form. If you do not have computer access, you can call the Marion County COVID-19 hotline at 352-644-2590 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and staff will submit the form online for you. (Note: DOH-Marion offices will be closed Dec. 31 and Jan. 1 in observance of the New Year holiday. Registration will only be available online on those days.)

COVID-19 vaccinations will be available on a first come, first served basis. Once eligible residents submit their information on DOH-Marion’s website, they will be placed in line for a call-back by staff to set an appointment. Staff will call to schedule a vaccination appointment as vaccine becomes available.  

Residents who sign up to receive the vaccination at the health department will receive the Moderna vaccine. The Moderna COVID-19 vaccine is a 2-shot series, with the second shot being provided 28 days after the first shot.