Greene County Public Health recently announced a projected timeline of rolling out COVID-19 vaccines to another group of people.

Public Health Director Becky Wolf says COVID-19 vaccines are anticipated to begin February 1st for the Phase 1B group of individuals, which includes people 65 and older, correctional facility staff and inmates, individuals with disabilities living in home and are dependent on attendants for care and those attendants, staff and individuals living in congregate settings, pre-kindergarten through 12th grade school staff, early childhood education and childcare workers who work with younger and at-risk children; first responders, inspectors responsible for health, life and safety; and governmental officials engaged in state business at the Iowa Capitol during the legislative session. 

However, Wolf notes because of the uncertain amount of vaccines that may be distributed to the county, they are concentrating on those 65 and older, as well as other high risk populations, including those most vulnerable to exposure of COVID-19. She points out that once they begin administering vaccines to the Phase 1B population, it will take several weeks to complete, before they are able to move onto the next phase. Wolf adds, no one will be denied receiving a vaccine based on their residency or citizenship. 

Wolf says a waiting list has been established for those in the Phase 1B group to get their vaccine. Individuals in Phase 1B can contact Public Health at 515-386-0564 or email them at covid@gcmchealth.com to sign up to receive a vaccine.