CHA: Branch County COVID-19 deaths up to 72, vaccine in short supply

COLDWATER, MI (WTVB) – As the number of Branch County COVID-19 deaths continues to climb, the Branch-Hillsdale-St. Joseph Community Health Agency says they have a very limited supply of COVID-19 vaccine and they are currently vaccinating individuals in category 1A.

The C.H.A. reported on Thursday that there have been 72 COVID-19 deaths involving Branch County residents. All but five of the deaths have been reported since October 1. Branch County has the highest death toll of the three counties in the jurisdiction. St. Joseph County has recorded 59 deaths while 58 deaths have been reported in Hillsdale County. The Calhoun County Public Health Department, which is a separate agency, has reported 186 COVID-19 related deaths.

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services has stated that as of this Monday, local health departments and hospitals in the state can begin vaccinating for category 1B. But the C.H.A. says that as of this time, they are not able to schedule vaccinations in that category because of the shortage of vaccine.

Governor Whitmer criticized the federal government for a lack of vaccines during her Wednesday press briefing which led to a point blank question from veteran Lansing reporter Tim Skubick.

Michigan Chief Medical Examiner Doctor Joneigh Khaldun said as she tried to explain the numbers that nobody in the country was happy with the speed of vaccinations.

It looks like it will be about two weeks before more vaccine is received. The C.H.A. says they are expecting to receive additional vaccine the week of January 24th and will include appointments for some category 1B individuals at that time.

Residents are asked to check the C.H.A.’s web site at www.bhsj.org for up-to-date information as to when appointments will be open for scheduling category 1B which includes those 65 and older.