Local leaders work to get coronavirus vaccines to Yuma County
News 11's Crystal Jimenez talks to our state lawmakers about their search for more shots
YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) - Yuma County continues to face a shortage of coronavirus vaccine. Arizona simply hasn't provided it with the doses it needs to meet demand. However, the county's state representatives are working to get the public the shots they want and need.
Rep. Tim Dunn (R-District 13) told News 11's Crystal Jimenez, he's received many calls from his constituents pleading for help. Dunn said, he's working with his fellow lawmakers, local leaders, and health officials to get more vaccine to the county.
That includes meeting with officials from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) last week during their visit to Yuma County last week.
Dunn said the CDC was in town to help get the right allocation of vaccines to the area.
News 11 has reached out to the CDC regarding the visit but hasn't heard back.
Dunn's colleague, Rep. Charlene Fernandez (D-District 4) recently sent a letter to President Joe Biden. Fernandez pleaded for help in getting vaccines into rural areas like Yuma County. She told us she's also in touch with the Board of Supervisors regarding the issue.
Slots for Yuma County's latest vaccine clinic filled up in less than an hour. Many people expressed frustration over the sign-up process, leading the county to issue an apology.
Related: Yuma County issues apology for issues with vaccine phone lines
Still, health officials have been able to immunize some 8,000 members of the local community.
