Pettis County has now vaccinated approximately 33.1 percent of the population with at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccine.

According to the state’s website, that means 14,012 county residents have received one dose and 12,266 are considered fully vaccinated, which is approximately 29 percent of the population.

But health-department officials say Pettis County is falling behind the state’s rate of 46.1 percent with at least one dose and 40.2 percent fully vaccinated.

For Pettis County, 43.9 percent of the population 18-plus has had at least one dose and 38.4 percent are fully vaccinated. The state is reporting 56.7 percent of the population over 18 has received at least one dose of vaccine and 49.8 percent are fully vaccinated.

Health officials say vaccine remains the primary way to stop the virus from spreading; along with masking, distancing and staying home if you are ill.

Vaccines are available at AFC Urgent Care, local pharmacies, at many community events, as well as Katy Trail Community Health, Bothwell Regional Health Center and the Pettis County Health Center. All vaccines are free.