NASHVILLE, Tennessee (WTVF) – Tennessee is preparing to move to the next phase of its COVID-19 vaccine distribution plan by the end of the month.
The Tennessee Department of Health said those in Phase 1b, which includes teachers, child care workers and 65-year-olds, could begin vaccination on Feb. 22.
Individual provinces are moving at a different pace, but the state is preparing to move on to the next phase of the distribution plan. Last week, the Department of Public Health announced that it is ready to make appointments for teachers and residents aged 70 and over to get a COVID-19 vaccine. Because of the offer, Tennesseans must consult their local health department to determine what phase the county is in for vaccine distribution.
“Tennessee has so far administered more than one million doses of COVID-19 vaccine, and we have made significant progress in protecting our senior citizens over the age of 70 through vaccination,” said Dr. Piercey, Tennessee health commissioner, said. “While we remain focused on our elderly, who are the largest at-risk population, and we can increase vaccine admission to these additional groups as our supply continues to grow each week.”
The health department has launched an online scheduling tool for those who want to make an appointment. Click here for more information.
TDH also announced amendments to its vaccination plan. The department is adding pregnant women to the phase 1c group. TDH said that although pregnant women did not participate in the COVID-19 vaccine trials, they had an increased risk of hospitalization and the possible death of COVID-19. These women are encouraged to talk to their healthcare providers to make informed decisions about the vaccine.