There’s been a great deal of confusion and chaos at the county, state and federal level over COVID-19 vaccine allotments; however, on Tuesday, Feb. 2, state of North Carolina health officials announced new tools and other changes meant to help state residents get answers to their COVID-19 vaccine questions.

Especially to their most asked and most important question: “Where can I get vaccinated?”

For one thing, the state’s COVID-19 vaccine help center has expanded its hours and its information offerings.  Now, the center can be reached at 888-675-4567 Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. until 7 p.m., as well as on Saturday and Sunday from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m.

 Callers can get help with general questions regarding the COVID-19 vaccine, and they can also find out if they’re eligible to get it and can learn about vaccine events and locations.

 Those who need transportation can also get help over the phone regarding their available options for getting to a vaccination spot.

The state’s vaccine help center can help English speakers, Spanish speakers, and callers using teletypewriters.  Callers will also be able to choose “call back assistance.” That way, they receive a call when agents are available rather than waiting on hold for extended periods.

In addition, updated web tools at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/vaccines let people find out if they’re eligible and where they can get a shot. The “Find a Vaccine Location” search tool lets anyone in North Carolina enter their ZIP code to find nearby vaccine providers.

The state is promising that that tool will be updated regularly with the latest available data – but state officials still emphasize that users should contact vaccine providers directly in order to confirm availability and schedule appointments.

North Carolina is currently vaccinating health care workers, long-term care facility staff and residents, and people who are 65 and older – but the state is working to expand the effort to other categories in the near future.

 

 

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