AARP Florida: Transparency, Responsiveness Key In COVID-19 Vaccine Rollout

For Immediate Release: Jan. 6, 2021
Contact: Dave Bruns, dbruns@aarp.org , 850.228.2759

AARP Florida Appreciates Gov. DeSantis Prioritizing Floridians Age 65-Plus

St. Petersburg, Fla. – AARP’s Florida State Director, Jeff Johnson, issued the following statement today on the rollout of the COVID-19 vaccine in Florida:

“COVID-19 has devastated millions of families across America and led to more than 20,000 deaths here in Florida.  It’s a relief to know that vaccines are now becoming available.”  

”AARP believes state and local governments must be transparent about their vaccine distribution plans and keep the American public informed. AARP appreciates the effort by Gov. Ron DeSantis to prioritize vaccinations for Floridians age 65-plus as well as residents of elder-care facilities.”

“We understand that rolling out a vaccine to millions of Floridians is a complicated challenge.  A rollout of such a major initiative, in both the public and private sectors, often has confronted challenges at first.”

“But we are hearing very strong concerns from our members and all older Floridians.  Too many older people are frustrated by their inability to understand when and where they can get vaccinated.  And in some communities, a long history of systemic discrimination has left trust in tatters.  This is jeopardizing the effectiveness of a brilliant scientific success in developing the vaccines.”

“It is important for elected leaders at all levels of government, as well as our health-care institutions, to be transparent and responsive to these concerns.”

“We will continue fighting to ensure that the COVID-19 vaccine rollout proceeds as rapidly as possible.  AARP is working to connect Americans 50+ with trusted information about vaccines, so they can decide what’s best for themselves and their families.”

“As a start, you can go to www.aarp.org/flvaccine for an update on what we know at this point.  We will continue to update this resource as new information comes in.  Please contact your primary care physician and your local county health department for more information.”

“If you are willing to share your personal story about this important issue, please email flaarp@aarp.org.  “

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AARP is the nation's largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence and nearly 38 million members, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also produces the nation's largest circulation publications: AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit www.aarp.org or follow @AARP and @AARPadvocates on social media.