WASHINGTON – U.S. Rep. John Katko (NY-24) today announced that he spoke directly with Dr. Anthony Fauci, Director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, on addressing COVID-19 vaccine distribution and supply issues in Central New York and across the nation.
Katko discussed these issues with Fauci on a joint call with the Republican Governance Group and Blue Dog Coalition, Congressional Caucuses comprised of moderate Republicans and Democrats, respectively.
Earlier this month, the CDC recommended expanding vaccine eligibility to immunocompromised individuals as well as those ages 65 and over, making over 7 million New Yorkers eligible. But with New York State only receiving a weekly allotment of 250,000 to 300,000 doses, eligibility and demand has significant outpaced vaccine supply.
This has led to confusion and frustration for hundreds of thousands of Central New Yorkers as they await vaccination appointment availability. In speaking with Fauci, Katko highlighted the impact the vaccine shortage is having on Central New York and discussed the impediments to manufacturing and distributing enough vaccines to meet demand. Katko also offered his support in Congress to help address supply issues and partner on any legislative initiatives that would accelerate vaccine distribution.
“To beat this pandemic, our number one priority has to be getting vaccines distributed. Unfortunately, here in Central New York as in much of the country, we have seen supply significantly lag behind demand, and confusion surrounding the rollout of the vaccine,” Katko said. “That’s why, I was glad to have a productive conversation with Dr. Fauci, highlighting the severe shortages in Central New York and stressing the importance of increasing vaccine production and improving distribution processes. I will continue to engage with federal, state, and local officials to address the concerns of the COVID-19 vaccine rollout and remain focused on advocating for policies and practices that will help us overcome this pandemic.”
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