Grocery workers are among the next in line for COVID-19 vaccines, as the city plans to administer one million doses by the end of January.
This is part of Phase Two of the vaccine launch, which also includes first responders, such as police and firefighters, teachers and pharmacists.
The first phase delivered shots to frontline workers in ICUs and hospitals, workers and residents of nursing homes and EMS workers.
“Since the beginning of the pandemic, our members, like many other industries, have been forced to work every day and have been exposed to significantly more than most other industries. So having them in phase two creates a very advantageous situation for maintain their health for themselves and their families, “said Robert Newell, president of UFCW Local 1500, who represents supermarket employees.
There are a total of five phases in the city plan. Most New Yorkers who are not essential workers or at risk will be vaccinated during the last phase. The timeline runs until September.