LEXINGTON, Ky. — Roughly 20,000 people in Lexington have been vaccinated against COVID-19, Mayor Linda Gorton announced Wednesday. Gorton also predicts local vaccination numbers will increase over the next few weeks.

The local health department also planned to vaccinate another 2,000 healthcare workers Wednesday, according to the mayor.

The majority of those vaccinated are healthcare workers, first responders, or senior citizens living in long-term care.

“Lexington has an out-sized healthcare community because we serve the needs of the eastern half of the state,” Gorton said. “As a result, it is taking a little time for us to work through vaccination of our healthcare community. But we have made real progress, and some of our vaccine outlets have moved on to those who are next in line. We know there are a lot of uncertainties in this process, and we must be flexible.”

Gorton asked for patience as residents wait their turn.

“We will adjust here in Lexington, as needed, and we will be transparent, so our citizens know what we know,” she said. “I can only ask everyone to be patient until it is your turn. We will make sure everyone who wants a vaccine, will get one.”

A retired nurse herself, Gorton said several retired nurses and pharmacists reached out and asked if volunteers are needed to administer vaccines.

“That’s the kind of spirit that makes our city great,” Gorton said. “Yes, we will need help. People to help administer vaccines and people to help the program run smoothly.”

For those who want to volunteer, people with healthcare training can join the Health Department's Medical Reserve Corps online to help administer vaccines.

Residents who want to help with everything from traffic control to entering data can email Gorton at Mayor@lexingtonky.gov.