San Diego County healthcare workers conduct COVID-19 testing at SDCCU Stadium. Photo by Chris Stone
San Diego County healthcare workers conduct COVID-19 testing. Photo by Chris Stone

San Diego County public health officials reported 227 new COVID-19 cases Tuesday and eight additional deaths from the pandemic disease.

Of 8,966 tests announced Tuesday, 2.5% returned positive. The 14-day rolling average of positive tests remained at 2.5%.

Vaccine doses available to administer in San Diego County grew by almost 100,000 to 163,000 on Tuesday. Both the federal government and county officials have promised an increase in deliveries as more people become eligible for vaccination.

According to county Health and Human Services data, hospitalizations decreased to 181, from Monday’s 198. Of those 181, 69 were being treated in intensive care units.

After more than a year of the pandemic, the total number of COVID-19 cases in the county has risen to 269,997. The death toll stands at 3,555.

COVID-19 vaccines will be available Wednesday from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at a one-day walk-up clinic at the Sherman Heights Community Center, 2258 Island Ave. A total of 300 doses will be administered that day on a first-come, first-served basis exclusively to residents of the 92102 and 92113 ZIP codes. Proof of residence such as a driver license or utility bill will be required.

Officials announced the Del Mar vaccination site will close Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday due to a vaccine supply shortfall. It was closed last Sunday for the same reason.

City News Service contributed to this report.