ATLANTA (AP) – Data shows the gap in COVID-19 vaccination rates between Black and white residents of Georgia has basically closed.
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports state numbers show the rate of Black Georgians who have been vaccinated with at least one shot is now 52.3%, compared to 53% for whites.
The rates for both groups are about 10 percentage points below the overall state average for COVID-19 vaccination, according to the state Department of Public Health. Hispanics (55%), Native Americans (69.7%) and Asian Americans (94.9%) all have higher vaccination rates
But the state remains one of the least vaccinated in the country. DeKalb County Health Director Dr. Sandra J. Valenciano said she and others continue to push community outreach, campaigns to combat misinformation and mobile clinics across Georgia.
“COVID-19 is essentially here to stay,” Valenciano told the newspaper. “If you are fully vaccinated, and you are eligible for the booster, get your booster. If you’re not vaccinated getting your vaccine protects you and it helps protect your community.”