WINDSOR, N.C. – The downpour is non-stop in some parts of the region.
"Especially Bertie County. We have a lot of flooding in this area,” said Gustina Ferguson Philips.
Rain or shine, she was going to get her second COVID-19 vaccine shot next week at a drive-thru clinic.
But the ongoing weather is interrupting her plans.
"I was like, ‘Oh, Lord. Oh my goodness.'"
That was her reaction when she logged on to Facebook to a notice from Albemarle Regional Health Services stating that shipment delays will cancel first and second dose shot clinics scheduled between February 22-25.
"I kind of figured because of the weather, but I was hoping and praying that it didn't get canceled,” she adds.
Ferguson-Phillips says she needs that shot.
"I have diabetes - type 2 diabetes,” she adds.
Regional health leaders say they are aware that people like her are in need of the vaccine.
In a statement, they are saying, “You will receive your guaranteed dosage upon arrival,” reminding patients that, “second doses can be administered up to six weeks (42 days) following the first dose."
"I was at ease when I found out we can wait up to six weeks to get the second dose,” Ferguson-Phillips adds.
Related: UVA doctor weighs in on what delays in COVID-19 vaccine second dose could mean
Now, she’s keeping her fingers crossed that there isn’t a second delay.
She believes the faster people get vaccinated, the safer her community will be.
"I'm tired of seeing people get sick and dying,” she adds.
Leaders say, “We will provide updated clinic schedules as soon as we are notified of anticipated shipping dates."
