IDAHO FALLS – Idahoans aged 65 and over will be eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine starting on Monday.
Earlier this month, health professionals, first responders, teachers and elementary and high school staff, day care centers and a few other groups began receiving vaccines during their initial distribution. Next on the eligibility list are the elderly, who also represent the demographic group most vulnerable to the new coronavirus.
Local vaccine providers will work with Southeast Idaho Public Health and East Idaho Public Health to begin scheduling appointments for the new priority group on February 1. As supplies of vaccines remain limited, appointments to receive them will initially be limited, but the area is preparing for high demand.
At the rate that Idaho is receiving vaccines, it is expected to take 13 weeks to vaccinate the new priority group, according to a SIPH press release. This means that many individuals who currently qualify for the vaccine may not be able to receive their first dose for several weeks. If Idaho receives more doses than expected, the number of consultations will increase accordingly.
EIPH: Bonneville, Clark, Custer, Fremont, Jefferson, Lemhi, Madison or Teton counties
For seniors who apply for vaccination at EIPH, visit the website Saturday, January 30th at 9am to determine what scheduling options are available in your county. This will be done through public health services, pharmacies and private health providers.
A telephone line through the EIPH is available for those who do not have access to the internet from January 30 at 9am for scheduling appointments and can be reached at the following numbers:
- Bonneville, Clark, Fremont, Jefferson, Madison and Teton counties: (208) 533-3235
- Custer County: (208) 879-2504
The EIPH press release added that Teton County will offer community-based vaccination clinics, in addition to each week, with more information here. Lemhi County will have a different process in place for scheduling appointments for vaccines, with more information on the EIPH website.
Walk-ins will not be accepted, as bookings are necessary due to COVID’s safety precautions. EIPH asks those who attend your appointments to bring identification documents, age or employment status. Wear a shirt that allows your arm to be accessible for the vaccine and wear a mask to protect yourself and the clinic staff.
In addition, the health district is asking people who are not yet eligible for the vaccine to try to get a dose before the scheduled time.
SIPH: Bannock, Bear Lake, Bingham, Caribou and Franklin counties
For seniors who apply for vaccination at SIPH, a list of vaccine providers is available on their website. If you are not currently eligible for a vaccine, but would like to be notified when you are, apply here.
“We understand that many people want to be vaccinated as soon as possible. We are asking for patience while dealing with a vaccine supply that is not enough to meet our demands, ”said Maggie Mann, Director of Public Health for Southeast Idaho, in the press release. “SIPH and our community partners are committed to doing everything possible to vaccinate our community and we appreciate your understanding as we coordinate with the state and community partners to increase the availability of the vaccine.”
SIPH estimates that this summer there will be enough vaccines for everyone who is recommended to receive them. No direct costs will be charged, but insurance companies may be charged for administrative costs.
The COVID-19 vaccine is administered in two separate doses, which are separated by 3 to 4 weeks. SIPH added in its press release that those receiving the vaccine may experience mild side effects, including low fever, arm pain and fatigue, but this is an indication that the vaccine is working.
“This vaccine gives hope, but we are still not clean,” said Mann. “As we distribute these vaccines throughout southeastern Idaho, it is important that everyone continues to do their part in fighting this pandemic by wearing masks, washing their hands and avoiding meetings.”
For any questions, SIPH maintains a call center open from Monday to Friday, from 9 am to 4 pm, at (208) 234-5875.
More information about the Modern vaccine and the Pfizer vaccine from the CDC can be found by clicking on their names.