As efforts increase to ramp up vaccination levels Google is working on making it easier to find out where you can get the jab by showing nearby vaccination centers on Google Maps. In addition, Google is planning on opening up spaces to serve as vaccination sites as part of its efforts to fight the continuing COVID-19 pandemic.
Google has expanded its information panels on Search to more than 40 countries and dozens of languages, with more in the pipeline. These panels will begin showing state and regional distribution information to help people find out when they are eligible to get the vaccine. Furthermore, YouTube and Google will hold a “Get The Facts” initiative that aims to put out authoritative information about the vaccine to the public.
Searches for “vaccines near me” have increased 5x since the start of 2021, COVID-19 vaccination center locations will be available via Search and Google Maps, with Arizona, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Texas spearheading the program. Vaccine seekers will be able to learn whether the center offers a drive-thru function or appointments need to be made. Google is working with partners such as VaccineFinder.org as well as government agencies and retail pharmacies to help make the relevant information available.
Select Google facilities such as buildings, parking lots, and open spaces will be made available as needed to help with vaccination efforts, with the search giant partnering with health care providers and public health authorities to open sites in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Washington, and New York City.
[Google]
