HONOLULU, Hawaii (HawaiiNewsNow) – Hawaii is increasing the distribution of COVID-19 vaccines in Hawaii, but not everyone is still eligible to receive the injection.
This is because there is still limited supply of the vaccine on the islands and across the country.
Two COVID-19 vaccines have been approved for use in the United States; one is manufactured by Pfizer and the second by Moderna. Both vaccines require two doses, separated by three to four weeks.
Whichever vaccine you take first, you will receive the same vaccine for the second dose.
The State Department of Health outlined two phases for the distribution of the vaccine.
Currently, the state is vaccinating those who fall into Phases 1a and 1b.
Phase 1a includes health professionals and those living in long-term care institutions. Phase 1b includes essential frontline workers and people aged 75 and over.
In Phase 1b, key workers include all first responders and:
- Correction officials and officers
- Emergency services dispatchers
- Individuals essential to federal, state and local government operations
- Critical transport infrastructure workers (such as port workers)
- Critical utility workers (such as energy and water)
- Nursery support staff and teachers
- US Post Office employees
Phase 1c is scheduled to start in mid-March. Includes:
- Adults 65 to 74 years
- People aged 16 and over with high-risk medical conditions
- Essential workers not previously qualified
The final phase of distribution, Phase 2, includes anyone aged 16 or over who has not previously been vaccinated.
There are several vaccination efforts underway simultaneously, including in long-term care homes, hospitals and educational settings.
Mass vaccination sites are another way to get the vaccine.
The vaccine is free, but it is always a good idea to check with your health insurance provider to confirm.
It is not mandatory to have the vaccine. If you qualify, but want to wait, you can do so.
The state Department of Health said, “As more long-term data becomes available on the long-term benefits and safety of the vaccine, the CDC will decide whether the vaccine should be mandatory.”
People who have recovered from COVID-19 are being urged to get the vaccine, if they are eligible.
The CDC notes that experts still don’t know how long someone is protected from getting sick again after recovering from COVID-19. Natural immunity also varies from person to person.
It is still recommended that you wear a mask after receiving the vaccine because, although you may not have the symptoms of the virus, there is a chance of passing the virus on to others.
Social detachment and hyper-hygiene will also be a reality in the foreseeable future.
For more information on the safety of COVID-19 vaccines, click here.
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