(Granbury, Tx) – The distribution of vaccines in Granbury and Hood County has begun, but officials say it will take some time to develop the herd immunity needed to keep people safe.

Hood County Public Health Authority, Dr. David Blocker says “It will greatly depend on the public’s willingness to get vaccinated as the vaccines become available…”.  Hood County hopes to achieve 70% herd immunity through the vaccination program.

“I am receiving numerous calls every day from (Hood) county residents asking me for vaccination. We need everyone to understand that they must work with their primary care doctor, residential facility or employer to receive the vaccination when available,” Blocker stated.

Hood County says there has been a sharp increase in COVID-19 cases as a result of holiday gatherings. The number of cases after Thanksgiving went from 1935 to 2557 cases in Hood County, and from 3466 cases just before Christmas to a whopping 3790 cases, as of today.