Lack of COVID-19 vaccine doses on hand slowing vaccination process in Maine

AUGUSTA, Maine (WABI) - As Maine’s vaccination efforts continue, the number of people wanting the vaccine far outweighs the number of doses on hand.

The state and its healthcare providers are now moving to phase 1-B of the vaccination process.

This means scheduling and administering vaccinations for those 70 and older.

The process has been slowed due to a number of reasons, including still vaccinating those in phase 1-A.

State officials say the biggest reason is the lack of supply.

”Right now, we know, unfortunately, that there are more folks who are looking for appointments and calling for appointments than there are people to answer the phones and give them a spot on the calendar. We know that process is frustrating for you, I hear that, and I get that. My ask, and Commissioner Lambrew’s ask, is that you bear with us a bit longer,” said Maine CDC Director, Nirav Shah, Tuesday’s CDC briefing.

For more information on vaccine phases or a list of vaccination sites for people 70 and over, you can visit Maine.gov

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