A milestone was reached on Monday when the state of Louisiana went over the one million mark in COVOID-19 vaccinations. In additional news from the Louisiana Health Office the state expects to get 37,900 doses of the one-shot, easier-to-use Johnson & Johnson vaccine sometime this week.
“We are hopeful over the coming weeks and months that this third vaccine will help ease supply constraints and bring America and Louisiana one step closer to ending this pandemic,” said state Health Officer, Dr. Joe Kanter.
Hospital systems are ready for the vaccine that experts are calling a “game-changer.”
“These vaccines are safe. They are extremely effective and they prevent death from COVID,” said Dr. Sandra Kemmerly, System Medical Director of Hospital Quality, Infectious Disease Specialist with Ochsner Health.
Experts said the Johnson & Johnson vaccine is a more durable vaccine, which makes it easier to handle. It can last up to three months in the refrigerator, whereas the other vaccines must be stored at very cold temperatures.
Vaccination Statistics for state of Louisiana as of March 1, 2021
| Current Phase of Distribution | Phase 1B, Tier 1 |
| Providers Enrolled | 2069 |
| Total Doses Administered | 1,025,411 |
| Initiated Vaccine Series | 657,265 |
| Completed Vaccine Series | 368,146 |
Eligible to receive vaccinations under Phase 1B, Tier 1
Hospital employees at Tier 1 & 2 facilities
Staff and residents of long-term-care facilities
First responders who will serve as vaccinators, e.g., EMS, fire personnel and law enforcement
Seniors 65 and older
Dialysis providers and patients
Ambulatory and outpatient providers e.g., urgent care providers and staff, dentists
Professional home care providers and their patients
Interpreters and support providers employed in healthcare
Individuals who are deaf and blind
Health-related support personnel, e.g, lab staff, mortuary staff, pharmacy staff
Schools of allied health students, residents and staff
Law enforcement and other first responders
Louisiana Unified Command Group
State and local essential COVID emergency response personnel
Some elections staff
Locations in Jackson Parish where vaccinations are available:
Mitchell’s Pharmacy, 202 E Main Street, Jonesboro, LA 71251
Jackson Parish Hospital, 165 Beech Springs Road, Jonesboro, LA 71251
Jackson Parish Health Unit, 228 Bond Street, Jonesboro, LA 71251
Walmart Pharmacy, 184 Old Winnfield Road, Jonesboro, LA 71251
There is no cost for vaccinations but an Administration fee may be billed to recipients insurance.