Here’s what you need to know about COVID-19 vaccine distribution in Hawaii

HONOLULU, Hawaii (HawaiiNewsNow) – Hawaii is increasing the distribution of COVID-19 vaccines in Hawaii, but not everyone is eligible to get the shot yet.

This is because there is still a limited amount of vaccine in the islands and throughout the country.

Two COVID-19 vaccines have been approved for use in the United States; one is manufactured by Pfizer and the second by Moderna. Both vaccines require two doses, separated by three to four weeks.

Regardless of the vaccine you receive, you will receive the same vaccine for the second dose.

The state health department outlined two steps for the distribution of the vaccine.

Currently, the state vaccinates those who fall into phases 1a and 1b.

Phase 1a includes medical staff and those living in long-term care facilities. Phase 1b includes essential frontline workers and people aged 75 and over.

In Phase 1b, key workers include all respondents and:

• Correction officers and staff
• Emergency services dispatchers
• Key people for federal, state and local government operations
• Critical transport infrastructure workers (such as dock workers)
• Workers in critical utilities (such as energy and water)
• Teachers and support staff for childcare
• US Postal Service employees

Phase 1c will begin in mid-March. It includes:

• Adults aged between 65 and 74 years
• People aged 16 and over who have high-risk medical conditions
• Essential workers who were not previously eligible

The final distribution phase, phase 2, includes anyone over the age of 16 who has not been previously vaccinated.

There are a number of simultaneous vaccination efforts, including in long-term care homes, hospitals and educational institutions.

Mass vaccination sites are another way to get the vaccine.

The vaccine is free, but it is always a good idea to consult your health care provider to confirm.

It is not mandatory to get the vaccine. If you qualify but want to wait, you can do so.

The state health department said, “As more long-term data on the long-term benefits and safety of the vaccine become available, the CDC will decide whether the vaccine should be mandatory.”

People who have recovered from COVID-19 are encouraged to receive the vaccine if they are eligible.

The CDC notes that experts do not yet know how long someone is protected from getting sick again after recovering from COVID-19. Natural immunity also varies from person to person.

You are still encouraged to wear a mask after receiving the vaccine, because although you may not have symptoms of the virus, there is a chance that you may be able to pass the virus on to others.

Social distancing and hyperhygiene will also be a reality for the foreseeable future.

For more information on the safety of COVID-19 vaccines, click here.