JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (KY3) – Governor Mike Parson on Thursday announced the activation of Phase 1B – Level 1 of Missouri’s COVID-19 vaccination plan.
Federal partners have informed the state that they plan to significantly increase the vaccine supply next week. Persons 65 and older and those with underlying health conditions will be a priority. This news enables the state to begin the process of activating Phase 1B levels.
“Starting Phase 1B activation is about saving lives and protecting those most vulnerable to exposure and disease from this virus,” Governor Parson said. said. ‘We are looking forward to an increase in the supply of vaccines in the coming weeks, as supply is the most important factor determining our movement through our plan. The more supplies we get, the faster we can reach our goal of making vaccines available to every Missouri who wants one. ”
The Phase 1B – Level 1 activation reflects the guidance the state has received from federal partners, as well as information gathered from stakeholders across the state. Phase 1B – Level 1 is activated today, and Phase 1B – Level 2 starts on Monday 18 January.
Phase 1B Level 1 focuses on protecting those who keep Missourians safe, including law enforcement, firefighters and health professionals.
Level 2 of Phase 1B focuses on protecting those at increased risk for serious diseases, including individuals 65 years of age and older and any adult with cancer, chronic kidney disease, COPD, or intellectual and / or developmental disabilities such as Down syndrome, heart disease. , a weakened immune system due to organ transplantation, severe obesity, pregnancy, sickle cell disease, or type 2 diabetes mellitus.
“We realize and appreciate that there are a variety of individuals on the front lines who are at greater risk of exposure every day,” Governor Parson said. said. “We are grateful for the tireless and selfless efforts of our healthcare providers and first responders who risk their own safety to protect the health and well-being of Missourians.”
Randall Williams, Director of the Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS), today issued a general health order regarding the vaccination of individuals in Phase 1A, Phase 1B – Level 1, and Phase 1B – Level 2. The order gives a exposition of who can be vaccinated. as part of the established phases of the state and applies to those administering the federally funded COVID-19 vaccines. See the attachment to see the order.
Although initial levels within phase 1B are activated today and Monday, there are currently not enough vaccines for everyone included in these groups. As additional stock arrives, this activation will allow the largest vaccine coverage possible where it is most needed. It will also enable vaccinations and organizations to continue planning effectively for future levels and phases.
Individuals in Phase 1A and Phase 1B – Level 1 must work through their employer and / or association to gain access to the vaccine. Persons in Phase 1B – Level 2 should contact their local pharmacy or healthcare provider or visit MOStopsCovid.com to determine when vaccines are available and how to receive them.
A list of vaccines and local vaccine implementation teams will be available on January 15 at www.MOstopsCovid.com. DHSS encourages employers and associations representing individuals in activated phases to use the list to contact a vaccine or local implementation team in their area. and make a plan for vaccinating their teams.
“We know that one of the most common questions among Missourians right now is when it’s their turn to be vaccinated, and we are very encouraged by the interest in the vaccines from the public,” Dr. Williams. “Every day, our team monitors the amount of vaccines that are available and ensures that they are distributed so that people can receive the vaccine as quickly as possible. We are so thankful to our hundreds of clinical partners across the state for making this happen. ”
Based on reporting from suppliers, at least 27 percent of Phase 1A received the first dose of the vaccine. This includes residents and staff of long-term care facilities and health workers, including dentists, EMS, school nurses and those working in hospitals or clinics, among others. These individuals will still be vaccinated.
Missourians began receiving first doses of COVID-19 vaccines last month. More than 160,000 individuals have received an initial dose, and more than 22,000 have now been fully vaccinated with the 2-dose series. Vaccination is still the rate-limiting factor for vaccine administration throughout the state. Allocations of government vaccines are determined by Operation Warp Speed.
Additional details on phases and levels outside Phase 1B – Level 2 can be found at www.MOStopsCovid.com. Public announcements will be made as later phases in the state’s vaccination plan are activated.
A white sheet summarizing Phase 1B levels is attached. More information regarding COVID-19 vaccines and Missouri’s vaccination plan can be found at www.MOstopsCovid.com.
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