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State officials announced on Friday February 12 that in a month’s time, administrators could begin coronavirus vaccinations for anyone under 65 with a health condition increasing their chances of having a fatal case of COVID-19.
Starting March 15, health care providers across California can vaccinate people aged 16 to 64 who are most at risk if they catch the coronavirus, including people with cancer, chronic lung disease and various heart diseases.
Also included are pregnant women, people with Down syndrome, and people who are severely obese, have type 2 diabetes or have had an organ transplant, among others.
“We recognize that some people in many different categories, whether professional or elderly, have additional risk factors, based on various disabilities (and) various conditions,” said the Secretary of Health and Human Services. from California, Dr. Mark Ghaly. journalists Friday afternoon.
The announcement came a turbulent month after Southern California public health departments and private networks expanded vaccination campaigns to include people aged 65 and over amid a supply shortage and huge demand. .
The addition of people aged 16 to 64 with health conditions will result in up to 6 million additional eligible people in addition to the millions of seniors and healthcare workers who can book appointments for photos today. ‘hui, said Ghaly.
“We still face the shortage of vaccines,” he said.
But while the supply outlook is bleak, Ghaly said administrators were now clear on getting more doses from the vaccine vials already in the state. Those giving first-line injections can now stretch Pfizer vials to six doses instead of five, and Moderna vials can now produce 11 doses instead of 10.
“The hope is that supplies increase and that we are working on our communication and engagement to make sure that people feel comfortable and safe to be vaccinated, and that it all comes together as soon as possible,” a Ghaly said.
Doses administered by Los Angeles health officials ran out earlier than expected this week, forcing the closure of five mass vaccination sites.
Orange County officials, meanwhile, said on Tuesday they would continue to focus their efforts on the elderly and wait another two weeks, at least, before offering the vaccines to educators, food service workers. and other people who will be following to get them.
As of February 12, 5.5 million doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna injections have been administered statewide, according to the Department of Public Health, which notes that the numbers “do not represent a real daily change, as the reports may be delayed. “
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that just under 8 million doses have been shipped to California and nearly 8.2 million doses have been shipped.
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