Here’s what you need to know about the distribution of COVID-19 vaccines in Hawaii

HONOLULU, Hawaii (HawaiiNewsNow) – Hawaii is increasing the distribution of COVID-19 vaccines in Hawaii, but not everyone is eligible to take the plunge.

This is because there is still a limited amount of vaccine on the islands and throughout the country.

Two COVID-19 vaccines have been approved for use in the United States; one is manufactured by Pfizer and the second by Moderna. Both vaccines require two doses, separated by three to four weeks.

Whatever vaccine you get, you will get the same vaccine for your second dose.

The State Health Department has outlined two phases for the distribution of vaccines.

Currently, the state is vaccinating those who fall into Phases 1a and 1b.

Phase 1a includes healthcare staff and those living in long-term care facilities. Phase 1b includes essential workers in the front line and people aged 75 and over.

In phase 1b, essential workers include all first responders and:

• Correction officers and staff
• Senders of emergency services
• Individuals Essential to Federal, State, and Local Government Activities
• Critical transport infrastructure workers (such as dock workers)
• Workers in critical utilities (such as energy and water)
• Childcare teachers and support staff
• U.S. Postal Service Employees

Phase 1c is expected to begin in mid-March. These include:

• Adults 65 to 74 years old
• People from 16 years and at high risk medical conditions
• Essential workers who were not previously eligible

The final distribution phase, Phase 2, includes everyone 16 and older who has not been vaccinated before.

There are a number of vaccination efforts underway at the same time, including long-term care homes, hospitals and educational institutions.

Mass vaccination sites are another way to get the vaccine.

The vaccine is free, but it is always a good idea to ask for it from your health insurer.

It is not mandatory to get the vaccine. If you qualify but want to wait, you can do so.

The health department said: “As more long-term data become available on the long-term benefits and safety of the vaccine, the CDC will decide whether the vaccine should be mandatory.”

People who have recovered from COVID-19 are requested to get the vaccine if they are eligible.

The CDC notes that experts do not yet know how long someone is protected from becoming ill again after recovering from COVID-19. Natural immunity also varies from person to person.

You are still asked to wear a mask after receiving the vaccine, because although you may not get symptoms of the virus, there is a chance that you can transmit the virus to others.

Social distance and hyperhygiene will also be a reality in the foreseeable future.

For more information on the safety of COVID-19 vaccines, click here.