DEAR SUN SPOTS: In the Jan. 19 Sun Spots, you state that a list of COVID-19 vaccination sites can be found through the following address; https://www.maine.gov/covid19/vaccines/vaccination-sites. I have attempted to reach this site several times over this past weekend and have been unsuccessful up to the moment, i.e. Jan. 31, 2021, at 2:55 p.m. It does take me to a state of Maine page, but then states “Page not Found”.
My wife and are both 88 years old and are anxious to “get in line” for the vaccination. We have supposedly reached a “voice” that has stated we are on the list, but that was about two-plus weeks ago and we actually cannot feel comfortable with no additional information. Help! — Edmund, Farmington
ANSWER: I certainly understand your frustration. Unfortunately, the situation with vaccines is changing by the minute with new information coming in all the time. This is the website address. I just double-checked it; it worked fine and is being updated daily: https://www.maine.gov/covid19/vaccines/vaccination-sites. It sounds like you are already on the list though if you left your information at 1-877-780-7545 to register. Many other folks are in your shoes; waiting for their return call to actually schedule an appointment. It doesn’t help to keep calling them — that only clogs up the phone lines.
Are you and your wife watching Dr. Shah’s updates at 2 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays? When I listened last Thursday, he assured everyone they would get their vaccinations. However, demand is far outweighing the supply coming into our state right now. We are still getting up to speed and things will get better.
Do the two of you have a regular health care provider? If so, you may get an email alert or phone call from their office with more information as your appointment gets closer.
I honestly wish I could say or do more to ease your mind. At 88 years of age, I’m sure you’ve been through so much in your lifetime and have had your share of joys and sorrows. COVID-19 is one more thing to “get through” as best as we can with what we have available to us. No matter what our age is, we are all looking so forward to the day when we can say, “We did get through that.”
This may be a good time to spread the word on something I heard when listening to Dr. Shah. When you do get your call to schedule your vaccination appointment, you will NOT be asked for personal information such as your Social Security number, credit card number, or any banking info. Absolutely do not give the caller that information if asked. Apparently, there are scammers in the mix trying to take advantage of people, especially our elder population. Do not talk to them and hang up.
The real schedulers will most likely request your full name, address or zip code, and birth date, but they will not ask for your Social Security number or financial information.
While we wait, continue to do whatever you’re doing to feel safe.
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