(WDBJ) – Some health districts in Virginia will begin vaccinating people aged 16-64 who have underlying medical conditions on March 1.
Mount Rogers and Cumberland Plateau Health District and Lenowisco Health District health districts will begin vaccination expansion.
“Those 16-64 with underlying medical conditions were part of phase 1b,” said dr. Karen Shelton, health director, said. ‘However, we have not yet had enough vaccine to open up to this population. With the increase in vaccine allocation by state and federal pharmacy partnerships, and based on the number of vaccines already given to the 65-year-old population, we have determined that there is currently sufficient vaccination to vaccinate this population. We are delighted to be able to provide vaccination to this population at this stage. ”
Those aged 65 and over will still be given preference for vaccines, as well as essential workers in the front line. Health department clinics and many community partners work from the list of pre-registrations to contact suitable people for appointments. To pre-register, visit vaccinate.virginia.gov/ or call 1-877-829-4682 for assistance with registration.
“We are also excited to announce a mass vaccination event for Mount Rogers, Cumberland Plateau and residents of the Lenowisco Health District that will be held on Saturday, March 6,” Shelton said. ‘This event is applicable to those aged 16-64 with underlying medical conditions, and it will enable us to start this new vaccination phase by serving a large portion of those on our waiting list before registration. Please note that this event is by appointment only for those who are already on our waiting list. ”
Pfizer is authorized for adults 16 years and older. The Virginia Department of Health says, “It’s important to note that Moderna is only allowed for 18-year-olds and older, so some sites may not be able to accommodate those under 18 due to the type of vaccination available.”
People with specific medical problems or conditions should discuss the COVID-19 vaccine with their providers.
People who are in isolation or quarantined for COVID-19, or who have another illness with fever, will not be eligible until these conditions are resolved. Those who have had COVID-19 and received monoclonal antibodies or plasma treatment can only receive vaccination 90 days after treatment.
Click here for information on underlying medical conditions. Click here for more information on COVID-19 vaccination.
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