Publix Begins Offering Vaccinations In Sarasota, Manatee Counties

SARASOTA COUNTY, FL — Publix continues to expand its COVID-19 vaccination program in Florida, now offering the vaccine through its stores in Sarasota and Manatee counties.

The first appointments booked quickly after the grocery retailer’s online appointment system opened at 7 a.m. Wednesday. According to the Publix COVID-19 website, all appointments in Sarasota and Manatee county are fully booked Wednesday morning.

The next round of vaccine appointments will be available Friday at 7 a.m., Publix said. Appointments can be scheduled online here.

Gov. Ron DeSantis discussed the expansion of the state’s partnership with the grocery chain during a Monday press conference at a Walmart Supercenter in Jacksonville. He was there to announce that 119 Walmart and Sam’s Club locations would begin administering the coronavirus vaccine and to discuss the state’s work with various retailers.

"Florida is proud to partner with Walmart and other retailers, including Publix, to expand access to the COVID-19 vaccine," DeSantis told reporters at a Jacksonville Walmart store on Tuesday. "Through the Federal Retail Pharmacy Program, we look forward to reaching more Floridians and ensuring that all eligible residents who want a vaccine are able to receive one. We will continue to utilize strategic partnerships and identify innovative ways to get more shots in arms and put Florida's seniors first."

Publix was the first retailer to offer the vaccine, launching its vaccination program in select Florida stores in early January. The program has since expanded to around 600 stores statewide across 41 counties.