Changes announced to COVID-19 vaccine and testing sites in Milwaukee
MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- As President Joe Biden ends the federal COVID-19 Emergency Declaration on May 11, the Milwaukee Health Department also announced upcoming changes Friday to its vaccination and testing sites.
This Friday is the last day COVID vaccines will be administered at the Menomonee Valley Drive-thru Clinic (2401 W. St. Paul Avenue).
"The changes are happening due to the expiration of the federal emergency declaration and the end of the Wisconsin Community Testing Support Program," said Milwaukee Health Department's spokesperson, Emily Tau. "Unfortunately, without the continued funding and support, we will need to pull back on our services."
Starting Monday, April 3, at least three clinics will be impacted with a change in their operating hours:
Southside Health Center (1639 S. 23rd St.)
- Mondays 3 p.m. – 6 p.m.
- Tuesdays 1 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Northwest Health Center (7630 W. Mill Road)
- Wednesdays 3 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Keenan Sexual Health Clinic (3200 N. 36th St.)
- Fridays 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
The department said April 15 will be the last day that the COVID-19 testing site at Menomonee Valley will be operating.
Mathew Avenanr told CBS 58 he got all of his vaccines and still gets tested regularly at the Menomonee Valley location. He's not sure where he will have to drive to, once the facility closes.
"I get it almost every other month just to double check," Avenanr said. "I work two jobs and (the) last thing I would need and want is to have anybody else, you know, having COVID or passing it."
The Milwaukee Health Department said their team has administered over 241,000 doses of the COVID-19 vaccine.
Milwaukee County Chief Health Policy Advisor Dr. Ben Weston said many are still in need of their shots, especially when it comes to boosters.
"In Milwaukee County, only 18% of folks have received their updated booster," he said.
Health officials say free at-home rapid tests are still available through the 'Say Yes Covid Tests Program' until the end of May.
Rapid antigen tests will still be distributed to Milwaukeeans as well.