Editor's Note: A previous version of this article incorrectly stated that as of Jan. 5, the Athens City-County Health Department had administered vaccines to 409 individuals. It should read, "As of Jan. 11, the department administered vaccines to 409 individuals, Ruth Dudding, director of community health and engagement, said in an email."
The Athens City-County Health Department announced Monday it will begin COVID-19 vaccination “as early as next week” for those in Phase 1B of the vaccine distribution plan.
The 1B tier will include K-12 adult staff, people age 65 or older and those with a congenital disability, according to a press release from the department.
Currently, the department is receiving limited supplies of Moderna COVID-19 vaccines, which are being given to those in tier 1A of the state’s vaccine distribution plan. That tier includes EMS workers, frontline health care workers and nursing home staff and residents.
The start date of vaccination is dependent on the availability of vaccines. School staff members are also recommended to coordinate with their districts to see when the vaccine will be offered at their school, according to the release.
Those who are at least 65 or have a congenital disability can call the department at 740-592-4431 to be added to the vaccination interest list, according to the release. When the vaccine is available and the individual’s time has arrived, they will receive a phone message providing information on how to schedule an appointment.
As of Jan. 11, the department administered vaccines to 409 individuals, Ruth Dudding, director of community health and engagement, said in an email.
“Even if you have been vaccinated, it is extremely important to continue safety measures such as wearing a facial covering, physical distancing, cleaning surfaces, and limiting the number of people who gather, until everyone receives a vaccine,” according to the release.
