More than half of the residents in Mississippi live in rural areas, and that’s been a challenge for health officials in regard to COVID. The Mississippi State Department of Health’s (MDSH) Office of Preventitive Health and Health Equity is trying to get the vaccine to minority and rural populations. They’re looking for organizations across the state that can help, by hosting vaccination efforts.
The Office of Health Equity addresses disparities primarily in Black, Hispanic, Vietnamese and rural poulations. They’ve been providing testing opportunities, handing out PPE and promoting health education in these communities. Vaccination is the next step.
“We are partnering with Federally Qualified Health Centers to increase vaccination efforts around the state, focusing on vulnerable and rural populations. What we need now are new local partners to help us bring vaccinations into communities that have not had the access that other Mississippians have had so far,” said Chigozie Udemgba, Dr.PH, CHES, Director of the Office of Health Equity.
All organizations, groups, businesses, municipalities and even cities are potential partners for MSDH. As a community partner, you will help identify those needing vaccinations, and the COVID-19 Health Equity Response Team will work to schedule the event.
Please call the Mississippi COVID-19 Hotline at 1-877-978-6453 if you would like to host a vaccination event in a minority or rural Mississippi community.
Keep up with the latest COVID-19 information by downloading the free MS Ready mobile app or follow MSDH by email and social media at http://www.HealthyMS.com/connect.
