Public health officials in eastern Tennessee announced Wednesday that 975 doses of the COVID-19 vaccine that went missing were likely thrown out by accident.
Knox County – which encompasses Knoxville – says the state’s Department of Health confirmed that the doses were shipped to the region last week, but local officials said they have no record of receiving them.
Knox County Health Department Director Dr. Martha Buchanan said that based on GPS data, she believes the box containing the doses was probably discarded by someone who thought they were throwing out dry ice. Due to security reasons, vaccine doses are shipped without any readily identifiable information attached.
“It was a kick in the gut for all of us,” Buchanan said through tears. “I apologize. Vaccinating our community is very important to us.”
County officials have asked for a state investigation even though Buchanan said there was no indication of foul play.