DANVILLE, Va. — Danville’s COVID-19 community vaccination center opened Monday, however, the rollout didn’t go as smoothly as planned.

There were delays and waits as people lined up at the former JC Penney location in the Danville Mall. even so, more than 1,000 people from the Danville/Pittsylvania County region rolled up their sleeves and received the first dose of the Moderna vaccine. There are more than 100,000 people in the local health district.

Virginia Department of Health Public Information Officer Robert Parker acknowledged the problems and apologized for the delays.

In a Facebook post, the city of Danville reminds that vaccinations are by appointment only.

The VDH is urging those with appointments to arrive as close as possible to your scheduled time to minimize waits and to avoid overcrowding. Remember to wear your mask and to keep your distance.

Everyone is asked to pre-register with the health department to receive the vaccine as soon as possible.

To pre-register, call the Virginia Vaccine Hotline at 1-877-829-4682, or enroll online at www.vaccinate.virginia.gov.