A coronavirus vaccination centre in California is closing for two days to host an anime convention.

The Grounds in Placer County, Sacramento, is the area’s main site for administering COVID-19 jabs.

But on 1 and 2 April it will be closed to host a “swap meet” organised by SacAnime.

County spokeswoman Katie Combs-Richard told local media that the vaccine centre has extended its opening hours until Wednesday to “maximise the volume” of doses and compensate for the closure.

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She said that around 90% of the appointments booked for this week are for second jabs, which are less urgent than the rollout of first doses.

From 1 April California is offering coronavirus vaccines to all 50 to 64-year-olds, meaning the new phase will be delayed for the first two days.

On 15 April the rollout will expand to everyone over the age of 16.

SacAnime says face masks will be worn during the convention with social distancing in place.

A spokesperson said in a statement on Facebook: “The clinic never had plans to be open during the scheduled time, and declined our offer to restrict our event space so they could remain open.

“The clinic already expanded all the vaccine appointments before hand and saw no need to extend their dates at this time.”

Many were critical of the closure on social media, with one person commenting: “They are taking away the largest vaccination center in the county for this.”

Another posted: “Bonus points for delaying my 2nd dose past the recommended 28 days.”

California Department of Public Health data shows that 48,000 jabs have been administered for every 100,000 residents.

These are the highest level in the Sacramento region and 13% higher than the statewide average.

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