NASHVILLE, Tennessee (WTVF) – Tennessee is preparing to move to the next phase of its COVID-19 vaccine distribution plan later this month.
The Tennessee Department of Health said those in Phase 1b, which includes teachers, child care workers and people 65 and older, can start registering for a vaccination appointment on February 22nd.
The counties are moving at a different pace, but the state is preparing to move on to the next phase of the distribution plan. Last week, the Metro Department of Public Health announced that it is ready to set appointments for teachers and residents aged 70 and over to get a COVID-19 vaccine. Because of the supply, Tennesseans should consult with their local health department to see what stage the county is in to distribute the vaccine.
“Tennessee has administered more than one million doses of COVID-19 vaccine to date and we have made substantial progress in protecting our citizens over the age of 70 through vaccination,” said Dr. Lisa Piercey, Health Commissioner of Tennessee. “Stay focused on our seniors, who are the most at-risk population. We are able to extend vaccine eligibility to these additional groups as our supply continues to grow each week.”
The health department launched an online scheduling tool for those who want to make an appointment. Click here for more information.
TDH also announced changes to its vaccination plan. The department adds pregnant women to phase 1c group. TDH said that although pregnant women were not included in trials of the COVID-19 vaccine, they were at increased risk of hospitalization and possible death from COVID-19. These women are encouraged to speak with their health care providers to help make informed decisions about the vaccine.