Publix to open COVID-19 vaccination sites

Ocala, FL — Publix is working with the Florida Department of Health to provide COVID-19 vaccinations in Citrus, Hernando and Marion counties.

Gov. Ron DeSantis made the announcement Tuesday in Ocala.

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Publix is receiving 15,000 doses of the Moderna vaccine to launch the new pilot program at 22 of its pharmacies starting Friday, Jan. 8. Appointments can be made beginning Thursday, Jan. 7. Customers age 65 and older are eligible. Each store can schedule approximately 120 vaccinations per day.

“As part of our ongoing efforts to increase vaccinations and put Florida’s seniors first, I’m pleased to announce this innovative partnership with Publix,” DeSantis said. “At the end of the day, we are all in this together, and the state of Florida thanks Publix for their willingness to step up and lend their infrastructure to this critical cause.”

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Vaccinations are provided at no cost.

At this time, there are no participating stores in the Jacksonville area.