Written by Justin Culetu
As more healthcare workers have been able to get the COVID-19 vaccine in recent weeks, San Diego County has decided to allow those 75 years of age and up to receive the shot. Health care workers and those living in long-term care facilities were the first priority group in the county’s vaccine distribution plan.
“We took this action today to add individuals 75 years of age and older because they are at the greatest risk,” said Dr. Wilma Wooten, San Diego’s county public health officer.
Distribution sites around the county have seen a decline in appointments since the vaccine was initially made available. This prompted public officials to expand the population criteria. According to Wooten, those 65 and older are expected to be allowed to make appointments for the vaccine the week of January 25th.
“It remains our intention to expand vaccines to those 65 and older the week of Jan. 25, contingent of vaccine availability,” she said.
Still, as of now only health care workers and elderly folks over the age of 75 are allowed to get the vaccine. Appointments are required, as walk-ups or drive-ins will not be utilized in the county at this time. Masks and proof of identification are also required at vaccine stations. More information can be found on the county vaccine website, and appointments can be made here.
Thanks to the hard work of scientists and healthcare workers around the country, the vaccine was able to be manufactured and distributed in record time. It must also not be forgotten that President Trump’s administration made all of this possible through Operation Warp Speed, a public-private partnership aimed at producing an effective vaccine as quickly as possible.
