More slots open at Dover speedway for second vaccination shots

The event at the speedway best known for NASCAR races had previously been open to a select group. Now anyone who has received the first shot can try to get an appointment.

Cris Barrish

February 23, 2021

COVID vaccine in syringes ready for inoculations. (Nelvin C. Cepeda/The San Diego Union-Tribune via AP, Pool)

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Delaware now has open second-dose slots at its mass vaccination event at Dover International Speedway for people who received their first shot elsewhere before Jan. 22.

Previously, the ongoing event where about 3,000 people are getting the critical second inoculation dose a day had only been open to residents whose first shot came at these four Division of Public Health events:

Dover Division of Motor Vehicles, Jan. 16-18.
Salesianum School in Wilmington, Jan. 18.
Delaware City Division of Motor Vehicles, Jan. 22-24.
Georgetown Division of Motor Vehicles, Jan. 23-24.

But now Delawareans who got the first dose from an in-state pharmacy, medical provider, clinic or other source are eligible to sign up to get their next dose on Thursday or Friday. Officials said about 2,000 extra doses per day are now available at the event at the speedway best known for NASCAR races.

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Scheduling can be done online starting today at de.gov/fema. Those without Internet access may call DPH at 1-833-643-1715.

No one will get vaccinated without an appointment and must prevent an ID and their vaccination card that proves the first dose was given before Jan. 22, officials said.

Authorities urge everyone who gets an appointment to be prepared for long wait times, and to have a full tank of gas and bring snacks.

In addition to the expansion of the Dover event that started Saturday, about 2,000 people who received their first shot at the Chase Center in Wilmington are being contacted to schedule their second dose.

About 182,500 shots have been administered so far in Delaware, and Gov. John Carney said Monday that about 50,000 people have received both doses.

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