Polk Inmates Will Start To Receive COVID-19 Vaccines

POLK COUNTY, FL — Inmates in Polk County jails will receive the Moderna vaccine starting Saturday, the Polk County Sheriff's Office said.

“COVID-19 vaccinations are now readily available to the general public in Polk County," Sheriff Grady Judd said. "We believe now is the appropriate time to offer inmates the vaccine. We are thankful for the partnership we have with the Florida Department of Health and Corizon Health to make this happen.”

Vaccines will be available at the Central County Jail in Bartow, and at the South County Jail in unincorporated Frostroof, officials said. Employees at the jails will have the opportunity Thursday and Friday to receive a vaccine. Moderna shots will be available to inmates after Saturday as long as a supply is available, according to deputies.

Second doses will also be available for inmates still in jail after they receive their first one. For those who will be released, they can contact the Florida Department of Health to schedule their second vaccine.