Houston Nurse In Group 1A Still Waiting For COVID-19 Vaccine As Texas Expands Eligibility To 1C

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) – Texans who fall into Group 1C, those who are 50 and older, can now receive the COVID-19 vaccine. But there are people in Group 1A who said they still have trouble getting that first dose.

SEE ALSO: Texas Expands Eligibility for the COVID-19 Vaccine

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

“I’m in home care. I work with pediatric patients who are immunocompromised, most of them are on a traché and have ventilators,” Darosa said.

She takes every precaution, especially with COVID-19.

SEE ALSO: Texas Is Growing Eligible, But Health Experts Fear Consequences Of Reluctant Vaccines

‘I’m more concerned about the patients than myself. I mean, of course I’m worried about me, but I’m taking every precaution. I keep my circle small, but it’s really about them, ”she said.

But despite working with vulnerable patients, Darosa still hasn’t been able to get the vaccine. She told ABC13 that she’s been trying to get the vaccine since December.

‘I think it’s insane. I don’t understand, ”said Darosa.

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

SEE ALSO: What Life Could Be Like After the COVID-19 Vaccine

“I don’t understand how 1A hasn’t been fully vaccinated, but we’re going to open it up to more people. It doesn’t make any sense,” she said.

Stephen Williams is the director of the Houston Health Department. He says if anyone in Group 1A has a problem getting the vaccine, contact them directly.

“We want to get the 1As done. We definitely want to get the 1Bs done. It’s important. We know this isn’t a perfect process,” Williams said.

Williams went on to say that’s why the health department is there.

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

Fortunately, Darosa has an appointment and will receive her dose on March 20.

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

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