SALT LAKE CITY – Governor Spencer Cox announced on Thursday that, “From now on, Utahns over 16 with certain comorbidities can be vaccinated.”
Cox also announced that all eligible groups no longer need to make an appointment to receive a dose of the vaccine in their own counties.
Information on where the vaccine is available and the list of underlying medical conditions that will become eligible for the vaccine on March 1 can be found on the state’s coronavirus website.
This announcement and the acceleration of the schedule came after Cox announced last week that the vaccine would be available to Utahns aged 65 and over.
“In just one week, we gave the first dose of the vaccine to 29% of Utahns aged 65 to 69, which is incredible news,” said Cox.
Cox emphasized the need for newly eligible people to receive their doses of the vaccine to ensure that they meet the requirements outlined on the state’s website.
“Please pay special attention to this piece now. The CDC approved the Pfizer vaccine only for people aged 16 to 18, so if you are 16 or 17 and have one of these underlying health conditions, you can make an appointment at a location with the Pfizer vaccine to make the injection . “
Cox also asked for patience in the process, as not all vaccination sites have the Pfizer vaccine and many local pharmacies have not yet been able to update their eligibility requirements.
The honor system
“We are using the honor system … we are looking for speed instead of precision, this is a choice we had to make, which means that it is possible for people to lie about whether or not they have one of these underlying health problems. We will not require a medical certificate to do this.
“But I’m begging you, please, please, please, don’t jump in line. We have so many vaccines coming and they will be coming soon, ”said Cox.
Cox said these decisions were made to prioritize and protect those most at risk of serious complications or death and that moving forward would mean that someone who is most at risk will not be able to get theirs.
No scheduling required for residents in their own counties
The other major change made to the vaccine implantation in Utah is that Cox said that all eligible residents will no longer need to consult in the counties where they live.
Cox said that if you can find an appointment in another county, you can attend, but you will have to return to that county to receive your second dose.
This story is emerging and will be updated.
How to prevent the spread of COVID-19 Coronavirus
COVID-19 coronavirus transmitted from person to person. It is a virus similar to the common cold and the flu. So, to prevent it from spreading:
- Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly, with soap and water, for at least 20 seconds.
- Wear a mask.
- Don’t touch your face.
- Keep children and people with compromised immune systems away from someone who is coughing or sneezing (in this case, at least six feet)
- If there is an outbreak near you, practice social detachment (stay at home instead of going to the cinema, sporting events or other activities).
- Get a flu shot.
Local resources
KSL Coronavirus Q&A
Utah Coronavirus Information
Utah State Council of Education
Utah Hospital Association
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
Utah Coronavirus Information Line – 1-800-456-7707
National Resources
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Frequently Asked Questions, World Health Organization
Cases in the United States