COVID vaccination sites in Tennessee have been busier since booster shots were approved late last month. But first doses continue to slow.

And having residents take their first jab is still the top priority for state health officials.

“We’re not going to boost our way out of the pandemic,” says Dr. Lisa Piercey, the state’s health commissioner. “While we’re talking about boosters, and everybody wants to make sure they’re as protected as they can be, our primary effort should still be getting those who are unvaccinated to get their first dose.”

In the last week, roughly 133,000 doses were given out. That’s an increase from the prior week but can mostly be chalked up to the many seniors and residents with health conditions who sought out a booster shot.

Within weeks, children as young as 5 could become eligible, if a Food and Drug Administration panel approves the Pfizer vaccine.

Right now, fewer than half of Tennessee residents are considered fully vaccinated. Nearly 90% of the state’s COVID deaths are among those who are unvaccinated.

Courtesy Tennessee Department of Health

Tennessee Health Department data shows a small uptick in shots being administered statewide. The rise follows the approval of Pfizer booster shots. First doses, according to state data, have been declining since surge related to the delta variant.