COVID vaccine update from Governor

An increasing number of Arkansans are getting vaccinated for COVID-19, but minority communities are apparently falling behind when it comes to the state’s vaccine rollout effort.

During his weekly COVID-19 Task force update, Gov. Asa Hutchinson said Arkansas’ minority groups are not receiving COVID-19 vaccines at the same rate as the state’s white population. He said the state has partnered with the Arkansas Minority Health Commission and other minority advocacy groups to ensure the vaccine is reaching all communities in Arkansas.

Hutchinson added that more and more messaging on the effectiveness and safety of the COVID-19 vaccines currently available is being focused on communities of color in Arkansas.

Hutchinson then explained that, despite the increasing number of vaccines available to the public, community spread of COVID-19 remains a concern. He encouraged Arkansans to remain vigilant against COVID-19 and get their vaccine as soon as possible to help bring the current pandemic to an end.