The Cleburne COVID-19 Vaccination Hub has concluded operations now that vaccines are more widely available.
The Vaccine hub gave its last shot on May 19 at the Cleburne Conference Center. The State reduced the amount of vaccine shipped to the regional hub as the vaccines become more available at traditional medical providers.
“The Cleburne Vaccination Hub provided a vital service when the region needed it the most,” Mayor Scott Cain said. “This effort is another example about how our hard work and commitment to the community make Cleburne a leader in Texas.”
The Vaccination Hub was first established in December 2020 by the state as a way to distribute the vaccine when it was not yet widely available. It was made possible by vaccines from the state and a collaboration between Johnson County and the City of Cleburne. The Hub was staffed by Cleburne Fire and volunteers including firefighters from across Johnson County, medical professionals from Texas Health Cleburne, local nursing students from Southwest Adventist University and Hill College, and assistance from the National Guard. Many local businesses also supplied assistance to hub staff and visitors.
Throughout its operations, staff gave 25,276 shots. The Cleburne hub was recognized for creating an easy, quick, and enjoyable experience with easy to follow instructions, live music, and cheery staff.
“Because of the hard work of our staff they found a way to make getting a shot fun,” Cain said.
As more vaccines become available at pharmacies, doctors’ offices, and other locations the need for a large hub operation decreases. This will also allow Cleburne firefighters to return their resources to their traditional responsibilities. Chief Lail added that if the need arises for Cleburne Fire to resume distributing vaccines it remains ready.
“I am extremely proud of the effort put forth by the men and women who worked at the Vaccination Hub,” Fire Chief Scott Lail said. “With teamwork and positive attitudes, we were able to make getting a shot fun and easy while helping to protect the health of our community.”
Those interested in receiving a COVID-19 vaccine can find distributors by viewing an online map provided by the Texas Department of Health and Human Services.