By K.D. Norris
The Kent County Health Department announced Friday that local health departments and health systems have received authorization from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) to begin COVID-19 vaccination of some people in priority phases beyond 1A starting today, Monday, Jan. 11.
Qualified persons can register at vaccinatewestmi.com/register.
“Those registering should expect that appointments may not be available for several weeks as vaccine supplies are limited and Phase 1A is still in progress,” according to the KCHD announcement. “We encourage everyone to be patient as we prepare for the upcoming vaccination phases. Vaccinations are occurring as quickly as possible and information is being shared as it becomes available.”
The new phase of vaccination priority includes all people 65 years of age or older “not covered in Phase 1A. This includes those in a congregate setting who were not reached in Phase 1A.”
For the COVID-19 vaccine to be effective, individuals must receive a second dose 21-28 days after their initial vaccination, and it must be from the same manufacturer. So, according to the announcement, it is important to schedule an appointment at the same location for both doses. There are no out-of-pocket costs for consumers to receive the vaccine; however, those with health insurance will be asked to provide that information.
The state has also opened vaccinations for “prioritized frontline workers” including pre-kindergarten through high school teachers, support staff and childcare workers who usually have direct contact with children; first responders not covered in Phase 1A (firefighters, police, conservation officers, inspectors); corrections workers (staff in prisons, jails, juvenile justice facilities); and workers in homeless shelters, congregate childcare institutions, and adult and child protective services.
Individuals in Phase 1A who have not yet received the COVID-19 vaccine are strongly encouraged to register immediately to ensure smooth transition to subsequent phases. Additional criteria for Phase 1A can be found at vaccinatewestmi.com/vaccine-distribution.
Also, the announcement states that individuals should not receive the COVID-19 vaccine if they are in isolation or quarantine for COVID-19; pregnant or lactating, without first consulting with your healthcare provider to weigh the risks and benefits; have received any other vaccine in the last 14 days; have received monoclonal antibody therapy for COVID-19 disease in the last 90 days.
For more information on the COVID-19 vaccines visit vaccinatewestmi.com.
