SALT LAKE CITY – Utahns aged 75 and over can receive the COVID-19 vaccine as early as mid-February as part of Phase 2 of the state’s vaccine distribution plan.
The Utah Department of Health announced details Monday for Phase 2, which is expected to begin in February. The Utah COVID-19 Unified Command Group has adopted recommendations from the Department of Health for the second phase of vaccination under Governor Gary Herbert, according to a press release.
“We have seen older adults bear the brunt of the disease in our state and across the country,” said Rich Saunders, interim executive director of the health department. “These people are much more likely to be hospitalized, in need of intensive care and to undergo COVID-19. Ensuring these members of our community receive the vaccine as soon as possible will save lives and help reduce the burden on our hospitals. “
Phase 1 of the vaccine distribution plan began earlier this month. First-line health workers, residents and staff of long-term care institutions, as well as public and tribal health workers, are now vaccinated according to plan.
K-12 teachers and first responders will be the next groups to receive the vaccine, probably at the end of January, the press release said.
People over the age of 65 are more likely to experience severe COVID-19 effects. In Utah, 77% of all deaths from the disease so far have been in people aged 65 and over, the statement said.
“As we move to Phase 2 of our vaccination program, it simply makes the most sense to vaccinate those at the highest risk of hospitalization and death first,” Herbert said. “We will continue to refine our plans and move forward in accordance with the principle that those who suffer the most should be vaccinated first.”
Other groups that will receive the phase 2 vaccine have not been announced, according to the health department; however, Utahns will likely continue to be prioritized by age groups, the statement said.
Utahs with underlying medical conditions and living in certain “gathering conditions” can also be vaccinated in phase 2, the statement said. The Department of Health no longer considers employment status or type of employment when giving priority to vaccine groups.
Focusing on age will do more to reduce infections and alleviate hospitalizations than any other category of individuals as we continue to administer vaccinations, Governor-elect Spencer Cox said in a statement. “I am very supportive of this change and I know it will save lives.”
When phase 2 begins, people will receive the vaccine at mass vaccination clinics at local health departments. Later in phase 2, the vaccines will be distributed through local pharmacies and primary care providers, the statement said.
Additional details of Phase 2, such as how vaccine clinics will check the ages of vaccine seekers, are yet to be determined. More information about Utah vaccination plans is available at coronavirus.utah.gov/vaccine.
This story will be updated.
Jacob Klopfenstein