MADISON, Wisconsin (WBAY) – People with certain medical conditions will be eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine in Wisconsin as of March 29.
This is for people over 16 with the following conditions:
- Asthma (moderate to severe)
- Cancer
- Cerebrovascular disease (affects blood vessels and blood supply to the brain)
- Chronic kidney disease
- COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease)
- Cystic fibrosis
- Down’s syndrome
- Heart problems such as heart failure, coronary artery disease or cardiomyopathies
- Hypertension or high blood pressure
- Immunocompromised state (weakened immune system) due to solid organ transplant, blood or bone marrow transplant, immune deficiencies, HIV, use of corticosteroids or use of other drugs to weaken the immune system
- Liver disease
- Neurological conditions, such as dementia
- Obesity (body mass index [BMI] 30-39 kg / m2)
- Excess weight (BMI 25-29 kg / m2)
- Pregnancy
- Pulmonary fibrosis (with damaged or scarred lung tissue)
- Severe obesity (BMI 40 kg / m2 or more)
- Sickle cell anemia
- Type 1 or 2 diabetes mellitus
- Thalassemia (a type of blood disorder)
This makes it possible to vaccinate more than two million people in Wisconsin.
The Wisconsin Department of Health Services says that, due to limitations in the supply of the vaccine, providers may need to prioritize those who are most at risk. “This includes individuals with serious medical conditions, those with two or more illnesses, older adults or those who live in communities that have been disproportionately impacted by COVID-19. Each community is different, but everyone in this group will be eligible for the vaccine. “
Need to schedule an appointment? CLICK HERE to see our guide to the First Alert Vaccine Team. People without internet can call 1-844-684-1064 for options.
“Wisconsin remains a national leader in vaccinations and we are excited to open the eligibility for more Wisconsin residents,” said Governor Tony Evers. “I know that the past year has been difficult for everyone and I want to thank people for working and doing their part to protect themselves and their loved ones from COVID-19. We urge those eligible and most at risk to be vaccinated because each injection means that we are one step closer to getting back to our way of life in Wisconsin. ”
The state says it will likely be able to expand eligibility for all people aged 16 and over in May.
“All three of the COVID-19 vaccines available are incredibly safe and effective in preventing infections, serious illnesses and death. These vaccines are saving lives. That is why we are committed to ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to protect themselves against the virus, ”said DHS interim secretary Karen Timberlake. “We continue to accelerate our pace, getting more shots every week. Together with our vaccination partners across the state, we are helping those most at risk of exposure or most vulnerable to serious infections to obtain a COVID-19 vaccine. “
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