In a statement released Thu., Jan. 28, Columbia County Board of Supervisor Chair Matt Murrell announced the county Department of Health has called a temporary halt to open COVID-19 PODS countywide. “In light of the fact that we are receiving so few vaccine doses, as of next week we will begin conducting closed vaccination PODs,” Columbia County Department of Health Director Jack Mabb said. “If our weekly allocation remains the same for now, this situation will likely continue through February.” This week the Department of Health received 200 doses. No links for POD, or Point of Dispensing, appointments will be found on the Department of Health website until the vaccine supply increases. In the meantime, Mabb said, “the department plans to target ... the population within the state-defined 1B category.” He said, “I understand the frustration with trying to get vaccinated... We are doing the best we can with limited resources.” Mabb said other counties in New York have adopted the same approach. For those who have already received the first shot, the county will begin administering the second dose of the vaccine beginning Sat., Jan. 30. Pharmacies are now actively developing vaccination plans. Those in Columbia County that have registered with the state as providers are: Hannaford in Valatie and Hudson; Price Chopper in Chatham; ShopRite in Hudson; Walgreens in Hudson and Chatham; and the Hudson Walmart. Read the full press release at the county website. Read more at columbiacountyny [dot] com.