Illinois to receive approximately 400,000 doses of first distribution of COVID-19 vaccine

CHICAGO (WREX) – One of Illinois’ top doctors has shed light on the number of doses of a potential COVID-19 vaccine the state will receive immediately.

Dr Ngozi Ezike, director of the Illinois Department of Public Health, said the state will receive about 400,000 doses of the first COVID-19 vaccine.

Dr Ezike says the state is still figuring out how to distribute vaccine doses once the state receives them. The state previously said health workers and first responders would be among the first to receive the vaccine.

Earlier on Friday, Pfizer announced it would be submitting its request for emergency use of a COVID-19 vaccine to the FDA. This process can take anywhere from 2 to 4 weeks.

Dr Ezike says Pfizer’s vaccine is one that requires ultra-cold storage. The state is planning the location of this storage, according to Dr. Ezike. The doctor said the state has ordered 20 devices that can contain vaccines at the required temperature.

When asked if residents should be considered an emergency, Dr Ezike says the circumstances are not normal and proper precautions will always be taken to ensure safety.

“I think everyone understands the reason why he was rushed,” said Dr Ezike. “Everyone involved with the FDA will take the greatest possible care when considering the application.”