Alabama To Expand Access To COVID-19 Vaccine To Next Phase

MONTGOMERY, AL — The next phase of Alabama's COVID-19 vaccine distribution plan is set to begin March 22. Phase 1c of the plan includes all residents 55 and older and people with certain health conditions.

"We have been concerned that many people at high risk and others engaged in close contact work have not been eligible to receive the vaccine yet, but with the additional vaccine supply we are better able to meet the needs of Alabama residents," Governor Kay Ivey said Friday. "Starting March 22, individuals can be assured of receiving the shots they have been patiently waiting to get."

Related: Coronavirus Vaccine Hub: When, Where And How To Get Vaccinated In Alabama

Phase 1C of the state’s vaccine plan, includes:

• Persons age 55 and older
• Persons in identified age groups at risk for COVID 19 associated morbidity and mortality not
• included in Phase 1 b
• Persons with high risk medical conditions
• Critical workers not recommended for vaccination in Phase 1b

Medical conditions included in Phase 1c:

• Cancer
• Chronic kidney disease
• COPD
• Heart conditions such as heart failure, coronary artery disease or cardiomyopathies; immunocompromised state
• Solid organ transplant
• Obesity, BMI greater than 30
• Pregnancy
• Sickle cell disease
• Smoking
• Type 1 and 2 diabetes
• Other medical conditions as determined by your medical provider

In addition, workers in the following fields will be eligible for the vaccine:

• Transportation and logistics
• Waste and wastewater
• Food service (includes restaurant staff)
• Shelter and housing (construction)
• Finance (bank tellers)
• Information technology and communication
• Energy
• Legal
• Media
• Public safety (engineers)

State health director Dr. Scott Harris said in his announcement Friday the state expects to receive between 110,000 and 120,000 doses of vaccine per week, plus a separate allocation that is sent to retail pharmacies like Walmart and CVS through a federal program.

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