Food manufacturing workers eligible for vaccinations at event in Jonesboro

Gov. Asa Hutchinson announced Tuesday (March 2) that individuals employed in the food manufacturing industry are now eligible to receive vaccinations for COVID-19. Eligible individuals are invited to register for a community vaccination event scheduled for Saturday (March 6) in Jonesboro.

Vaccinations will take place from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at First National Bank Arena for eligible workers who qualify in the following categories:

– Those who are age 65 and older;
– Health care workers;
– First responders (police, firefighters, EMS);
– Education and child care workers, including K-12 and higher education; and
– Food manufacturing workers

“We are pleased with Governor Hutchinson’s decision and we’re excited to have the opportunity to provide vaccination for an extended number of people,” said Dr. Shane Speights, Medical Director for the City of Jonesboro and Dean of NYIT College of Osteopathic Medicine at Arkansas State University. “It’s very important that people receive the vaccine when it’s available to them, and events like the one we’re holding Saturday are a tremendous opportunity for people to do so.”

The city of Jonesboro, the Jonesboro Regional Chamber of Commerce, Arkansas State University, NEA Baptist Health System, NYIT College of Osteopathic Medicine at A-State, St. Bernards Healthcare and UAMS are collaborating to host and staff Saturday’s event.

The vaccines will be administered by staff members from NEA Baptist, St. Bernards and UAMS as well as NYITCOM medical students and ASU nursing and health professions students. The event will be staffed by numerous community volunteers.

Interested participants can register by clicking here or by calling 870-680-8880 to schedule an appointment. Those who receive a vaccine on March 6 will be required to return to First National Bank Arena on April 3 to receive a second dose.