HEB prepares to distribute COVID-19 vaccines

For many Texans, the road to a COVID-19 vaccine may be through HEB.

The San Antonio-based grocery chain is one of many participating in a federal COVID-19 vaccine allowance program established in partnership with the US Department of Health and Human Services.

HEB officials did not say when they expected to receive vaccine shipments, but Texas Governor Greg Abbott said on Wednesday the state would receive its first shipment of 1.4 million COVID-vaccines. 19 later this month.

Before making the vaccines available to the general public, the first doses are likely reserved for pharmacy workers and staff members more exposed to COVID-19, as HEB officials have said they will follow distribution plans. federal and state governments.

HEB officials issued the following statement on vaccine delivery plans:

“At HEB, the health and safety of Texans is our top priority. Our HEB pharmacy teams will play a critical role in the fight against the Covid-19 pandemic through our partnership with the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the State of Texas. Once the government has scheduled distribution to the general public, our HEB pharmacies will offer the COVID-19 vaccine. Already a trusted source for all routine childhood and adult immunizations, including administration of flu shots, we remain committed to taking care of Texans.

Experts believe pharmacies will start making COVID-19 vaccines available to the public by next spring.

In addition to HEB, Costco, CVS, Walgreens, and Walmart are among other San Antonio community chain and drugstore networks that have partnered with HHS to deliver the vaccine.

While the vaccine is promising news, experts recommend following social distancing guidelines and wearing a mask until most people are vaccinated.