News

Health department reopens vaccine clinic at mall

By Lightning Reports, Published: September 2, 2021

Citing increased demand for vaccination and in preparation for boosters this fall, the Henderson County Department of Public Health announced Wednesday that it will reopen its Covid-19 vaccine at the former JCPenney space at the Blue Ridge Mall.

Covid-19 vaccinations for first, second and additional doses are now being offered at the mall. Individuals seeking their first dose can schedule an appointment online Monday through Friday. Individuals who are moderately to severely immunocompromised may also receive an additional dose if they qualify under the CDC’s list of conditions. Booster shots for the broader public are not being provided at this time. 

The owners of the mall, Hull Property Group, donated use of the former JCPenney space in March for the Health Department’s mass vaccination clinics. In June, Covid-19 vaccinations were shifted to the Health Department on Spartanburg Highway due to the drop in demand.

More Henderson County residents have been getting vaccinated in recent weeks, coinciding with a surge of the Delta variant in the community. Weekly vaccinations have more than doubled countywide since reaching a low of around 300 the week of July 5.

In addition, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services announced a plan to begin offering booster shots for all Americans the week of Sept. 20 – starting eight months after an individual’s second dose. Those eligible at that time would include health care providers, nursing home residents and some seniors. More information on booster clinics will be shared later in September.

The Covid-19 vaccine clinic is open Monday through Friday from 9 to 11:45 a.m. and 1 to 4 p.m. Both Moderna (ages 18+) and Pfizer (ages 12+) vaccines are offered at no cost. Walk-ins are welcome, but individuals are encouraged to schedule an appointment online atwww.hendersoncountync.gov/health or call 828-585-4700. There will not be a clinic on Sept. 6 due to Labor Day.