Montgomery County looks to close vaccine hub by early June due to decreasing demand

Montgomery County is considering following neighboring counties in closing its vaccine hub at Woodforest Bank Stadium as soon as early June due to the demand for vaccines dropping.

During an April 27 commissioners court meeting, Jason Millsaps, executive director of the Office of Emergency Management, said the county has been seeing the number of vaccinations slow down over the past couple of weeks.

“Last week was the slowest week we have had,” Millsaps said. “We are filling in the holes with first doses. Right now, you can get to Woodforest Bank Stadium and get in and out within 30 minutes without an appointment if you want to do so.”

Millsaps said Galveston County has already closed its vaccine hub. Harris County recently extended hours for its vaccine sites and is accepting walk-ins.

“The opportunity to take advantage of a quick and efficient vaccine without having to get an appointment through your doctor’s office or wait in line is starting to diminish,” Millsaps said.

Millsaps added the temporary removal of the Johnson and Johnson vaccine from the market decreased demand for any vaccines.

“We have seen vaccine utilization plummet,” he said.

Millsaps said as of April 26, the county has distributed 309,463 first and second doses. Nearly 200,000 have been first doses. Around 67% of adults aged 65 and up have received at least one dose.