Local health department to host COVID-19 vaccine, testing clinic downtown

The Marion County Public Health Department will host a COVID-19 vaccine and testing mobile clinic during College Football Playoff Championship festivities Monday.

It will take place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the north side of Washington Street between Pennsylvania and Meridian streets.

The vaccine clinic will offer both initial and booster doses of the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines for those ages 12 and over, as well as the Johnson & Johnson vaccine for those ages 18 and older. Those receiving a second or booster dose of COVID-19 vaccine are asked to bring their vaccine card or a photo of the card. Parental or guardian consent is required for a minor to be administered the vaccine.

COVID-19 rapid testing will be offered at the clinic in a new mobile unit that includes an enhanced air filtration system designed by Indianapolis-based Lumin-Air. Rapid test results will be provided on-site within about 15 minutes of getting a test. 

“The best thing we can do right now to protect those we love is to practice the COVID-19 basics: wear a mask indoors, wash our hands frequently, stay home if feeling sick, and get vaccinated,” said Dr. Virginia Caine, director and chief medical officer of the MCPHD.

Caine also advised that individuals should avoid the hospital emergency room in these circumstances as it relates to COVID-19 so resources are available to care for the most critical patients.

As of Jan. 9 there have been 2,408 COVID-related deaths in Marion County, according to the most recent data posted on the MCPHD dashbaord. There have been 176,376 confirmed cases reported in the county since March 1, 2020.

Contact WFYI Morning Edition newscaster and reporter Taylor Bennett at tbennett@wfyi.org. Follow on Twitter: @TaylorB2213.