PHOENIX – Arizona Department of Health officials say 55 and older will now be eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine.
In a statement, officials called the arrangement a ‘hybrid approach’ that would allow 55-year-olds and older to get the shots fired along with essential workers.
The hybrid approach was launched on March 1 in the Phoenix metro area.
AZDHS says 90% of state deaths due to COVID-19 were under 55 and older. 65% of the people admitted to the hospital due to COVID-19 are in the age group.
‘The new hybrid approach will ensure the distribution of vaccine doses among individuals at high risk for serious outcomes, including hospitalization and death, from COVID-19 due to age, while enabling local health departments to prioritize essential workers through employer-based vaccination strategies, “read a portion of the statement.
Information on the phase of each province currently being vaccinated, the number of doses ordered by each province, and the location of vaccination sites can be found at azhealth.gov/findvaccine.
On March 2 at 12 noon, AZDHS will open 50,000 vaccinations at State Farm Stadium in Glendale and Phoenix Municipal Stadium.
Regarding the vaccination of essential workers, dr. Cara Christ told AZDHS on March 1 that it is up to the provinces to determine who falls into the category of essential workers to get the vaccination.
Those that fall into the category of essential workers include food and agricultural workers, transport and postal workers, airlines, transport and grocery stores.
Gila County has already vaccinated the general population
1 County Arizona is already vaccinating the general population
Since many counties in Arizona are still vaccinating the very old or essential workers, one province in eastern Phoenix is already vaccinating the general population.
Meanwhile, there is one province in Arizona that is already vaccinating the general population.
So far in Gila County, about 16,000 doses of the coronavirus vaccine have been administered, and about 38% of the population has now been vaccinated.
Deputy Director of Public Health Josh Beck says the Johnson & Johnson vaccination will soon go to Arizona hoping the number will rise.
“I think the extra options will help the 40%, 50% to 60% to 70% or higher,” Beck said.
Gila County’s decision to allow the general population to vaccinate against COVID-19 is based on the province’s vaccination POD numbers.
“We opened it for 65 years and older, and it was a POD of 2,000 people and we did not have enough people to register for it. At that point, we at least opened the POD to anyone in the province. general population for that weekend, ‘says Beck.
In a few weeks, it will be even easier for the people of the country to get a vaccine.
“Once we close our second dose of transit clinics, which are within about 30 days, we move on to just one of our healthcare partners for any resident who wants a chance,” Michael O’Driscoll said. Gila County’s Director of Health and Emergency Management.
Only Gila County residents can be vaccinated by the province. The state-owned PODs are the only places that offer vaccination to anyone who qualifies, no matter where they live.
How to sign up and plan a COVID-19 vaccine appointment
To protect yourself from a possible infection, the CDC recommends:
- Avoid close contact with sick people.
- Do not touch your eyes, nose and mouth.
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue and then throw the tissue in the trash.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces with a regular household cleaning spray or cloth.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a cloth to cover your face
- Wash your hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing.
- Monitor your health daily
Tune in to FOX 10 for the latest news: