Houston Nurse in Group 1A is still awaiting COVID-19 vaccine as Texas increases qualification to 1C

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) – Texans who fall into Group 1C, those 50 years and older, can now get the COVID-19 vaccine. But there are people in group 1A who said they are still struggling to get the first dose.

SEE ALSO: Texas increases eligibility for COVID-19 vaccine

Jennifer Darosa likes to be a nurse. She works with a special group of patients.

“I’m in health care at home. I work with pediatric patients who have weakened immune systems, most are on a ditch and have ventilators,” Darosa said.

She takes all precautions, especially with COVID-19.

SEE ALSO: Texas fitness expands, but health experts fear impact of vaccine vaccination

“I’m more concerned about the patients than myself. I mean, of course, I’m worried about myself, but I take all the precautions. I keep my circle small, but actually it’s about them,” she said.

But despite working with vulnerable patients, Darosa was still unable to get the vaccine. She told ABC13 that she has been trying to get the vaccine since December.

“I think it’s insane. I do not understand,” Darosa said.

Darosa said she knows other health professionals who are dealing with the same thing – still waiting to get the vaccine. Darosa falls under group 1A, which was one of the first to be vaccinated and now people in 1C can get it.

SEE ALSO: What life might look like with the COVID-19 vaccine

“I do not understand how 1A is not completely vaccinated, but we are going to open it up to more people. It does not make sense to me,” she said.

Stephen Williams is the director of the Houston Department of Health. He says if someone in group 1A is having a problem contacting the vaccine directly with them.

“We want to get the 1As done. We definitely want to get 1Bs too. That’s important. We know it’s not a perfect process,” Williams said.

Williams further said that is why the health department is there.

“As a health department, we serve as a safety net that connects people with providers,” Williams said.

Luckily, Darosa got an appointment and she will get her dose on March 20th.

“I’m excited. I’m very excited because I never want to be the reason anyone ever gets sick. Especially patients who can’t compensate,” Darosa said.

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