PHOENIX – The Arizona Department of Health Services has announced that it will open COVID-19 vaccinations to more people in our state, with those 55 and older eligible for an appointment at State Farm Stadium and Phoenix Municipal Stadium from Tuesday to make.
ADHS says it plans to continue its aging approach to protect those most at risk, including Arizonans 55 and above as essential workers in the latest expansion in the Phoenix metro area. According to state data, 90% of COVID-19 deaths and 65% of COVID-19 hospitalizations in Arizona are those 55 years and older.
SECTION: COVID-19 vaccine in Arizona
“This critical update provides more clarity for Arizonans and will lead to the rapid administration of vaccine to our most vulnerable population,” Governor Ducey said in a statement. ‘The continuation of the vaccination of older Arizonans against COVID-19 will help protect those at risk and cover a majority of Arizonans with chronic medical conditions. And this hybrid approach ensures a fair distribution of vaccine to our front-line workers who work with the public every day. ‘
About 50,000 vaccination slots at State Farm Stadium and Phoenix Municipal Stadium will be open Tuesday at 12 p.m. for those 55 and older for appointments starting Thursday. Appointments can be scheduled at pharmacies and federally qualified health centers that participate in the federal vaccination programs.
Government officials say with the opening of the age group to 55 and older, the category for vaccination of priorities will include between 56-66% of Arizonans with high-risk medical conditions.
ADHD says they will move to the next age category, people 45 years and older, when at least 55% of those vaccinated are eligible or if they feel there is no longer a question.
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Information on the percentage of population vaccinated according to age category will be added according to the AZDHS website. It is unclear when this data will appear.
“As more vaccine reaches Arizona, we will continue to refine our plan to maximize the benefits of this ever-limited resource,” said ADHS director Dr. Cara Christ, said. “If we go for a hybrid approach, we can administer the vaccine quickly and efficiently and give all Arizonans a clearer estimate of when they are eligible to be vaccinated.”