Maricopa County officials said they will begin Phase 1B vaccinations and open up scheduling for these prioritized individuals starting next week.
According to the Maricopa County Public Health website, the vaccination schedule will open on January 11.
The eligible populations included in Phase 1B are:
- Primary and secondary school staff and daycare centers
- Law enforcement / protection services *
- Adults aged 75 and over
County health officials said health workers who were eligible for Phase 1A and who still need to schedule their first appointments can do so, but will not be prioritized over other individuals currently eligible in Phase 1B.
With limited availability of the vaccine, health officials said it is their highest priority to ensure that all residents of Maricopa County have access to receive their vaccines.
Adults living in community settings and other essential workers will be prioritized for vaccination in Phase 1B after the groups listed above, according to their website.
The Pima County Department of Health will also begin the transition to Phase 1B at the end of next week, according to Pima County Deputy Administrator and Medical Director, Dr. Francisco Garcia.
“It’s wonderful that we have the highest vaccination rate in the state, but none of us should be happy where we are now,” said Pima County Health Director, Dr. Theresa Cullen. “It is essential that, as we are at an accelerated rate of transmission, we accelerate our immunization process. I am grateful to Pima County that we are making this commitment. “
Dr. Cullen said that Pima County hopes to undergo group 1B vaccination by the end of March.