(WDBJ) – Some Virginia health districts will begin vaccinating people ages 16-64 who have underlying medical conditions on March 1.
Mount Rogers Health District and Cumberland Plateau Health District and Lenowisco Health District will begin vaccine expansion.
“Those aged 16-64 with underlying medical conditions were part of Stage 1b,” said Dr. Karen Shelton, health director. “However, we don’t have enough vaccine yet to open up to this population. With the increase in vaccine allocation through the allotment of the state and federal pharmacy partnerships, and based on the number of vaccines already given to the population aged 65 and older, we have determined that there is currently enough vaccine to treat this population to vaccinate. We are delighted to be able to offer this population a vaccine at this time. “
Those 65 and older will still receive priority access to vaccines, as will eligible front-line workers. Health department hospitals and many community partners work from the pre-registration list to contact eligible people for appointments. Visit vaccinate.virginia.gov/ or call 1-877-829-4682 for registration assistance to pre-register.
“We are also pleased to announce a major vaccination event for residents of Mount Rogers, Cumberland Plateau and Lenowisco health districts, which will take place on Saturday, March 6,” said Shelton. “This event is aimed at people aged 16-64 with underlying medical conditions, and will allow us to start this new phase of vaccination by serving a large proportion of the people on our pre-registration waiting list. Please note that this event will only take place by scheduled appointment, for those already on our waiting list. “
Pfizer is authorized for persons 16 years of age and older. The Virginia Department of Health says, “It is important to note that Moderna is only authorized for those 18 and older, so some sites may not be suitable for people under 18 due to the type of vaccine available.”
People with specific medical problems or conditions should discuss the COVID-19 vaccine with their suppliers.
People who are in isolation or in quarantine for COVID-19, or who have another feverish illness, are not eligible for vaccination until these conditions have resolved. Those who have received COVID-19 and received monoclonal antibodies or plasma treatment are not eligible for vaccination until 90 days after treatment.
For information on underlying medical conditions, click here. For more information about COVID-19 vaccination, click here.
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