CARRINGTON, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – More than a year ago, the primary focus of COVID-19 was how it started and was spread.

Now, the focus is the changing and mutation of the virus.

Foster County Public Health Administrator Lisa Hilbert says they continue to work on offering vaccinations, but the variants have provided some more challenges for healthcare workers and the general public.

Hilbert says the goal is to still reach at least 70% to 75% of North Dakota residents to be vaccinated. Currently, Foster County sits at 55.1% of first doses received and 53.2% of the second dose received by residents.

Matt Paulson with Carrington Drug says at this time, it’s not known how long immunity will last following a vaccination.

Right now, it’s not certain if COVID-19 vaccines will need to be distributed annually, but health officials continue to study the case.

Paulson added that they’re always willing to answer any questions people may have when it comes to the vaccine.

If you have questions or want to sign up to be vaccinated in Foster County, you can contact any of the following entities to be registered:

Carrington Drug – 701-652-2521
Foster County Public Health – 701-652-3087
Central Pharmacy – 701-652-2651
CHI St. Alexius Carrington – 701-652-2515

Listen to a full interview with Lisa Hilbert & Matt Paulson below: