WALLINGFORD — Members of the Latino community discussed their views on the COVID-19 vaccine experience during a clinic at the Spanish Community of Wallingford last month. 

During the clinic, more than 200 people had been vaccinated by 5 p.m. With two hours left, there was a long line that stretched out the door. 

“We can’t believe how many people came!” SCOW Executive Director Adrianna Rodriguez said during the Dec. 16 clinic. “It’s so busy but we’re glad people are getting vaccinated.”

Isabella Sandoval, 6, of Meriden, went with her mother, Paulina Sandoval, 35, to get her first dose of the Pfizer vaccine.  

“Before coming, we talked with Isabella about the vaccine,” Paulina Sandoval said. 

Her husband was hesitant at first so they decided to wait after the FDA announced children ages 5-11 could be vaccinated. The couple eventually decided to have their daughter vaccinated because they feel the common goal is to keep everyone safe.  

“Isabella is a strong little girl and was able to get through her vaccine with no problem,” her mother said. 

Jennifer Avila, 22, and Angelica Avila, 17, both decided to get vaccinated early on. Once the sisters were eligible, they booked an appointment. Their mother, Angelica Avila, also received her shots.

At the Dec. 16 clinic, the sisters received a booster shot.  

“I travel back and forth from Atlanta, Georgia,” said Jennifer Avila, who attends Oglethorpe University and studies political science. She wanted to make sure her family was safe when she returned for the holidays. 

Rosa Solis, 49,  works for the Wallingford Public Schools. She came with her father to get their booster shot in time for the holidays. 

“I first decided to get vaccinated because I work with children,” said Solis, who is a diabetic. 

Since the vaccine was first announced, she wanted to receive her shots. She got her first dose in May of 2020 after the vaccine became available for school staff.