First Lady, Dr. Fauci call for more shots in arms at Kissimmee vaccination site

The First Lady, Dr. Jill Biden, and Dr. Anthony Fauci greeted people as they drove up to the Osceola Community Health Services Center on Thursday.  Those in line waiting in their cars were there to get their first shot of the COVID-19 vaccine.

Biden and Fauci’s arrival came as a complete surprise.

"To actually stand next to Dr. Fauci as he consoled and convinced someone to get the COVID vaccine, that’s the best," said Marian Sampson, the Chief Medical Officer Osceola Community Health Services.


Sampson says Fauci spoke to the people like his own family. Biden even holding hands as one person got their shot.

"A vaccine in a bottle on the shelf isn’t any good," said Dr. Fauci, the Director of the US National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease. "Vaccine in the arm is what we want."

This stop was one of many across the country for Biden as she tries to encourage people to get the shot.

Biden and Fauci’s trip to Central Florida coming as the nation appears to be falling short of President Joe Biden’s goal of 70% of the county getting their first dose by the Fourth of July.

In Central Florida, an estimated 63% of eligible adults have received their first dose. Biden says getting vaccinated is safe and it’s the right thing to do.

"So I’m asking you please do your part. Choose to get your shot," said Biden.

Biden and Fauci left the facility en route to Tampa Bay. They joined the Tampa Bay Lightning at the Amalie Arena for the "Shots on Ice" vaccination event.

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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said that 65% of adults are at least partially vaccinated as of now though.

Sixteen states and the District of Columbia have reached the 70% goal. Florida is just over 50%.

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