COLOMBIA, SC (WCSC) – While North Carolina announced an update to the COVID vaccine guidelines, the South Carolina state epidemiologist says Palmetto State has no similar plan.
The North Carolina Department of Health has told clinics that they can refuse anyone who does not live, work or receive medical care in the state.
In South Carolina, there is no proof of residency required to receive the vaccine.
The Department of Health and Environmental Control previously said that if South Carolina residents can go to other states to get the vaccine, there is no reason to refuse residents of other states.
Despite changes in North Carolina policy, State Epidemiologist Dr. Linda Bell says there is no discussion of a similar change in South Carolina.
“It is possible that this will change in our state, but I am not aware of any discussions at this time for the implementation of a residence requirement,” said Bell.
Although South Carolina is still in Phase 1A of vaccine distribution, Bell says the next phase could begin in late March.
During the next phase, essential frontline workers will be eligible for the vaccine.
However, during Wednesday’s advisory committee meeting, Bell said that only workers who are most at risk of exposure to COVID-19 will be eligible for the vaccine. This means that some people in the same company may be eligible, while others may not.
Essential frontline workers in Phase 1B are expected to include:
- Firemen
- Cops
- Correction officers
- Food and agriculture workers
- Postal workers
- Manufacturing workers
- Grocery store workers
- Public transport workers,
- Those working in the education sector – teachers, support staff and daycare staff
The phase is expected to include more than half a million people.
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