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SPRINGFIELD, Mo. (KY3) – A new website is offering information to residents of Missouri about COVID-19 vaccines and how the state plans to respond when vaccines become available.
MOStopsCOVID.com was first launched on Tuesday. It provides Missourians with information regarding vaccine safety, research and production processes, and when they might be eligible for vaccination.
“It has been remarkable to learn of the work that has been going on for many months now among scientists and researchers, many of whom are right here in Missouri,” Governor Parson said in a statement Tuesday. “The most important thing we have learned about the accelerated development process is that the steps have not been eliminated but instead occur simultaneously. Safety is not sacrificed and it is important that Missourians understand this.
Missouri’s COVID-19 vaccination plan was finalized and submitted to the CDC in October.
“Missouri started getting ready for vaccinations very early on because we think it’s our best way to get to a better place,” Dr Randall Williams, Director of DHSS said. “This process has continued to evolve, and we are committed to providing Missourians with the information they need as quickly as we can provide it. Information empowers, and the personal choices made during this public health emergency can have a positive impact on you, those around you and your entire community. “
According to the website, Missourians will qualify for immunization based on three priority phases, anticipating a limited initial supply. The plan includes the following phases:
- Phase 1 – Health workers, essential workers and high risk populations
- Phase 2 – Phase 1 populations, as well as all residents of Missouri
- Phase 3 – Widespread availability for all residents of Missouri
COVID-19 vaccines may not be recommended for children or pregnant women at first, according to the website.
In phase 1, the state elaborates on health workers, essential workers and high-risk populations for which the vaccine could become available:
Health workers
Healthcare workers and healthcare workers who may be directly or indirectly exposed to COVID-19 and are unable to work from home. This may include workers from:
- Skilled nursing facilities
- Long-term care facilities
- Aid to life
- Residential care
- Inpatient and outpatient facilities
Essential workers
- Public health
- First responders
- Childcare staff
- Teachers and educational staff
- Water and wastewater workers
- Energy workers
- Critical Manufacturing Workers
- Food and agriculture workers
High risk populations
People at increased risk of severe COVID-19 illness, including those 65 years of age or older, may be given priority:
- BMI> 30
- Chronic kidney disease
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
- Diabetes
- Hypertension
- Chronic heart disease
Nationally, a panel of U.S. advisers will meet on Tuesday to vote on how initial supplies of a COVID-19 vaccine will be distributed once approved.
Copyright 2020 KY3. All rights reserved.
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