The news that all Michigan adults would be eligible for a COVID-19 vaccine from next month came as a shock to many across the state on Friday, March 12, including local health departments.
Health officials were aware of the positive predictions for the next shipment of vaccine doses. Most of them heard President Joe Biden announce the night before that he wanted all Americans aged 16 and over to have a chance by May 1.
But the significant expansion announced by the governor’s office on Friday morning came as a surprise to many of the vaccination departments. This does not mean that it was not good news.
“To be honest, we are still digesting a lot of this,” said Steve Kelso, communications manager for the Kent County Health Department. “We have reason to believe that vaccine supplies are about to increase dramatically and we think that, with the West Michigan Vaccine Clinic in DeVos Place, we are in a very good place to do exactly what Biden said, get those injections and maybe everyone can have a happy fourth of july. “
Related: All Michigan adults will be eligible for a COVID-19 vaccine by April 5
Kelso said the Grand Rapids vaccine clinic set a state record on Thursday, March 11, by administering nearly 8,000 vaccines. And with more offers, he expects the site to be able to get close to 20,000 shots a day.
“Terribly excited is the mood around the health department today … It is the most excited I have ever seen Dr. Adam London about any news in all of this.”
In other parts of the state, others echoed similar optimism. Some also seemed overwhelmed by the idea of opening up eligibility so dramatically.
In Bay County, health officer Joel Strasz said the expansion “will present challenges” in some areas, but added, “I am optimistic and as long as the vaccine supply is there, it is a good thing. If there are problems with the supply, it will be very problematic. “
As of Monday, March 22, any residents 16 years of age or older with disabilities or medical conditions that put them at greater risk for a serious case of COVID-19 will be eligible for a vaccine.
Two weeks later, the eligibility pool will be expanded to include all Michiganders aged 16 and over.
State officials are still guiding vaccine providers to consider an individual’s risk of exposure due to their employment and their vulnerability to serious illnesses when scheduling appointments. But the expansion allows communities that are moving faster on their waiting lists to continue vaccinations without slowing progress.
In Ingham County, health officer Linda Vail said her team hopes to have seen all 50- to 64-year-olds with underlying health problems scheduled for consultations by the end of next week. They were already on the right track to start the next group – people in the same age group, with no underlying diseases.
“There is what is good and what is bad, although most are good,” said Vail. “Basically, it keeps us moving forward and spreads vaccination among population groups.
“What is needed is that we balance and leave vulnerable populations behind and only vaccinate the most experienced and most eager to get in line first.”
With more people eligible for an injection, Vail said it will only be more important for communities to use instant clinics and other strategies to break down barriers and get vaccines for groups that may not have transportation, technology and / or understanding how to apply for an appointment. .
In Ingham County, for example, Vail said the transportation authority is establishing free transportation for residents who have an appointment, but no other way to get there.
“It is critical to eliminate barriers as we go along,” she said. “Otherwise, certain people will be left behind.”
Residents who do not have access to the internet or who need help navigating the vaccine scheduling process can call the COVID-19 Hotline by calling 888-535-6136 (press 1), Monday through Friday, from 8 am to 8 pm 5 pm, or on Saturdays and Sundays, from 8 am to 1 pm or call 2-1-1.
As of Wednesday night, about 22% of Michigan adults and 57% of senior citizens in the state have received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, according to data from the state health department.
A total of 2,835,638 doses of vaccine were administered, including 1,824,772 first doses and 1,010,866 second doses. The Pfizer and Moderna vaccines require two injections weeks apart, while the Johnson & Johnson injection requires one dose.
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