The Biden administration had a big goal of getting 70% of Americans at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine by July 4.

As the holiday weekend approaches, the U.S. likely won't reach that goal.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, 54% of American adults have at least one dose.

In Minnesota, that number is 56% and in Wisconsin, it's 53%.

After a big spike around April, vaccination rates recently stalled. Experts say fewer people are making appointments and mass vaccine clinics are shutting down.

At 66% St. Louis County is inching close to President Biden's 4th of July vaccine milestone marker.

"Likely, we won't reach 70 percent," said the county's Public Health Director Amy Westbrook.

St. Louis County Public Health officials say in the last month, they've seen fewer people come through clinic doors.

"Our populations who have wanted to get vaccine sought it out, got it," adds Westbrook.

As of Tuesday, Essentia Health system has distributed slightly 3,034 vaccines this month.
They've also closed their mass vaccine sites meanwhile, patients can now get the shot at their local clinics.

"I think some people feel more comfortable with it because of the fact they can have that conversation. The convenience of not having to travel sometimes 30 to 60 minutes to get the vaccine," said Chief Medical Officer Dr. Peter Henry.

In Carlton County, they've hit that 70% mark but are also seeing rates drop.

"Something that we're able to celebrate, it was a great goal and is by no means the finish line for us," said County Public Health Specialist Jenny Bart. "We are continuing to offer the vaccine."

Health officials say they are concerned about the more contagious Delta variant making its way to the Northland.

They encourage people to get vaccinated but know they can't convince everyone.

In Wisconsin, about 53% of Douglas County residents have received at least one dose of the vaccine. The Wessman Arena vaccine clinic in Superior is still offering vaccines and, walk-ins are welcome. For more information, click here.

Meanwhile, Bayfield County has closed all mass vaccine clinics but still has appointments available. To book an appointment, click here.

To watch a video version of the original report and see related stories, follow this link to the KBJR-TV website. https://kbjr6.com/2021/06/29/northland-likely-wont-reach-bidens-july-vaccine-goal/