Sarasota County is offering in-home vaccinations to residents

As COVID-19 and other infectious diseases continue to spread throughout the community, Sarasota County is making it easier for some residents to get vaccinated. Health workers will administer shots to people in their homes.

Shots to protect against pneumonia are available along with flu and COVID-19 vaccines.

The Department of Health in Sarasota launched the in-home vaccination service in coordination with Sarasota County Health and Human Services.

The service is available for anyone unable to get to a clinic or other location on their own. This may include people with disabilities, people with chronic health conditions, children and seniors.

Older adults are more likely to go to the hospital for some infectious diseases, including pneumonia, which is a leading cause of death for this age group, according to Aleksandra Fitzgibbons, the Sarasota health department's Immunizations Program manager.

The county offers the following as examples of circumstances where someone would be able to get in-home vaccinations:

• Individuals of any age who are physically or mentally unable to leave the house.
• Homebound individuals receiving home health services.
• Individuals aged 65 and older who are unable to drive or to leave the house without proper transportation.
• Situations other than those described in the eligibility criteria will be evaluated by the nurse through a phone interview.

Officials note these are not the only circumstances and that anyone unsure if they qualify should contact the health department. Caregivers of those receiving in-home visits can also get vaccinated at the same time.

The service is available on Wednesdays and Thursdays. People can call (941) 861-2784 to schedule appointments Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m..

The COVID-19 shots are free for everyone, but people may have to pay for the other vaccines.

According to the health department, the cost of flu and pneumonia vaccines are covered for individuals with the following health insurance companies: Traditional Medicare (A and B), Blue Cross Blue Shield (Florida Blue except My Blue), Aetna and Aetna Medicare Advantage. Copayments may apply.

For uninsured individuals, the costs are as follows, flu vaccine (regular dose) $20, flu high dose $79.34, flu (for individuals allergic to egg products) $79.34 and pneumonia vaccines are $20.

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