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Wetzel Tyler Health Department Delivers Vaccine

By Randy Rutherford - Staff Writer | Mar 3, 2021

On Friday, February 26th I had the opportunity to stop in the Covid-19 Vaccine Clinic held at the United Methodist Church of New Martinsville on 10 Howard Jeffers Drive. While there I was able to speak with Karen Cain, RN Administrator of the Wetzel/Tyler Health Department, and gather current information concerning the vaccine effort for our area.

The Wetzel Tyler Health Department continues to do an incredible job of getting shots in the arms. Karen stated, “We have fantastic volunteers that have given us their time and energy to get this mission accomplished. The Wetzel Tyler Health Department has only four full-time employees and without the help of the volunteers none of this would be possible.” Volunteers include nurses and volunteers from Wetzel County Hospital, Sistersville General Hospital, retired RN’s, retired senior citizen volunteers, area pharmacists, and county commissioners. Thanks was also offered for several agencies who have brought lunch to the workers and volunteers.

Karen went on to also thank the offices of Emergency Management, Steve Yoho from Wetzel County and Tom Cooper from Tyler County. “They’re always there when we need them. Whatever we ask for they make sure we have it,” said Karen.

Karen expressed thanks to the United Methodist Church of New Martinsville for allowing them to use their space. “We outgrew our building in Paden City, and they were so generous to provide us with this offer of their building,” informed Karen.

While I was visiting the vaccination site in New Martinsville, I witnessed a very smooth and steady flow of people receiving their immunizations.

The process was seamless. All people at the clinic are required to wear a facemask and social distance. Those receiving an immunization should bring their identification and insurance card (although insurance isn’t necessary to receive the immunization). The clinic volunteers will help citizens through the registration line, to the table where they will receive their shots and out the door in a very short period of time.

The Health Department is encouraging everyone to get vaccinated. The process of being registered is easier than you might think. Karen would like everyone in need of the vaccination to either call 833-734-0965 or visit: vaccinate.wv.gov and follow the registration steps. The Health Departments CANNOT accept names to be placed on the registration list!!!! Please call or visit the site listed above.

The Health Department is administering between 500 and 700 shots, for first time vaccinations, every Thursday at the United Methodist Church in New Martinsville.

They are also administering over 700 second shots every Friday at the same location. You will receive a call with your appointment time and instructions. Vaccinations are given by appointment only.

In closing Karen encourages everyone to get their Covid-19 vaccine. “There is really no good reason why you should not get your vaccination. The amount of doses available is enough to handle all those that would like to get vaccinated,” Karen insured.