Some health districts in Virginia to expand phase 1b population immunization



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(WDBJ) – Some health districts in Virginia will begin on March 1 immunizing people aged 16 to 64 who have underlying medical conditions.

The Mount Rogers Health District, Cumberland Plateau Health District and Lenowisco Health District will initiate vaccine expansion.

“The 16 to 64 year olds with underlying health conditions were part of phase 1b,” said Dr. Karen Shelton, director of health. “However, we haven’t had enough vaccines yet to open up to this population. With the increase in vaccine allocation through state allocation and federal pharmacy partnerships, and based on the number of vaccines already administered to the population 65 and older, we determined that it There are currently enough vaccines to start vaccinating this population. We are delighted to be able to offer the vaccine to this population at this time. “

People 65 and older will always have priority for vaccines, as will eligible essential frontline workers. Health department clinics and many community partners work from the pre-registration list to contact those eligible for appointments. To pre-register, visit vaccinate.virginia.gov/ or call 1-877-829-4682 for assistance with registration.

“We are also excited to announce a mass immunization event for residents of the Mount Rogers, Cumberland Plateau and Lenowisco Health District, which will take place on Saturday March 6,” Shelton said. “This event will be aimed at 16-64 year olds with underlying health problems and will allow us to launch this new phase of vaccination by serving a large part of the people registered on our pre-registration waiting list. Please note that this event will only take place by appointment, for those who are already on our waiting list. “

Pfizer is licensed for ages 16 and over. Virginia Department of Health states, “It is important to note that Moderna is only licensed for those 18 and over, so some sites may not be able to accommodate those under 18 due to the type of vaccine available. “

People with specific medical conditions or problems should discuss the COVID-19 vaccine with their suppliers.

People in isolation or quarantine for COVID-19, or who have another illness accompanied by fever, are not eligible for the vaccine until these conditions are resolved. Those who have had COVID-19 and received monoclonal antibodies or plasma treatment are not eligible to receive the vaccine for up to 90 days after treatment.

For more information on the underlying medical conditions, click here. For more information on COVID-19 vaccination, click here.

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