Saturday, November 9
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Gov Cooper Visits Vaccine Clinic at NC Zoo

ASHEBORO NC (ACME NEWS) – North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper made a stop at the NC Zoo today to take a look at the Zoo’s vaccine clinic, and of course to see a few animals.

The vaccine clinic toured by the Governor is one of two clinics that the NC Zoo is hosting as of NCDHHS’ Bring Summer Back campaign. So far, more than 220 organizations have joined the Bring Back Summer campaign, which has reached an estimated 1.3 million North Carolinians. The clinics at the NC Zoo are a collaboration with Randolph County Health Department, Department of Health and Human Services, and the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, and StarMed. 

NC Gov Roy Cooper stooped by the NC Zoo to visit a vaccine clinic the zoo was hosting. (Scott Pelkey / Acme News)

Anyone ages 12 and older can get their first or second Pfizer vaccine, and the Johnson & Johnson vaccine is available for those 18 and older. No ID or insurance is required, and there are no out-of-pocket costs. 

The current clinic is open today until 4 PM, and Saturday from 10 AM-4 PM, with a second clinic scheduled for Thursday, June 10th through Saturday, June 12th from 10 AM to 4 PM each day. Anyone who receives their vaccine at one of the NC Zoo’s clinics will get a free Zoo ticket. 

“North Carolina is turning the corner on this pandemic, one shot at a time,” Gov. Cooper said. “Getting your vaccination at this clinic can be more joyful than ever, thanks to this collaborative effort between health care providers and state agencies at the North Carolina Zoo.”

Last Friday, Gov. Cooper lifted most COVID-19 restrictions including the indoor mask mandate for most settings, mass gathering limits, and social distancing requirements. The Governor’s announcement follows the new CDC guidance.

“Vaccines are the best way to protect you and your family from COVID-19. That’s why Randolph County Public Health is pleased to join the NC Zoo and StarMed Healthcare to provide COVID-19 vaccines for folks age 12 and older. Please don’t miss this opportunity. Come to the zoo and for your spot, to take your shot!” said Randolph County Health Director Susan Hayes.

Following a press conference, Governor Cooper made a stop to meet one of the Zoo’s polar bears as well as the North American River otters before attending a private event. 

North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper and the first family of NC look on as Otters swim by at the Streamside exhibit at the NC Zoo. (Scott Pelkey / Acme News)

Anyone who wants to get a vaccine at one of the Zoo’s clinics may walk up without an appointment or you can make a reservation at https://starmed.care/ or by calling 980-445-9818. The clinic is located in the North American parking lot, Lot D.