Richmond Mayor Levar Stoney described the city’s new COVID-19 vaccination web portal as a “game changer” this Tuesday during his weekly press conference.
Stoney along with Richmond and Henrico Health District Nurse Manager Amy Popovich, demonstrated the city’s new scheduling system. Popovich said registering for a vaccine has never been easier.
“No more are the days of waiting by the phone or scrolling and refreshing your email hoping that your pre-registration record is finally your time,” Popovich said. “It's your time now.”
The new portal allows residents to reserve their own appointment rather than pre-registering Residents can access the portal through the health district website.
According to Stoney, the city is making steady progress in vaccinating residents. Nearly 84,000 Richmonders have received their first dose and approximately 59,000 people are fully vaccinated.
“This is a challenge, it's a marathon, but the finish line is right before us. We just have to continue to run through the tape,” Stoney said.
Stoney also noted that state and federal guidelines are beginning to change. Just today, the CDC announced new guidelines for fully vaccinated individuals.
Health and safety guidelines have also expanded in Virginia. Recently, Gov. Ralph Northam expanded indoor and outdoor social gatherings, attendance at sporting and performing arts events, and reopened bars.
Although progress is being made, Stoney urged residents to continue to be responsible as Richmond nears the finish line.
“I want to say to Richmonders, remember increasing vaccination rates are a great sign of progress but that doesn’t mean we can let down our guard,” Stoney said.
Stoney said residents should still wear their masks, social distance, register for the vaccine and follow the state’s health and safety guidelines.
Residents age 16 and above are currently eligible to be vaccinated. To schedule your appointment, visit vax.rchd.com or call 804-205-3501
