COLDWATER, MI (WTVB) – The Branch-Hillsdale -St. Joseph Community Health Agency has received an initial allotment of Moderna COVID-19 vaccine and vaccinations have begun for individuals in the Phase 1A priority groups.
The allotment comes as the C.H.A. reported on Monday that Branch County’s COVID-19 related death had reached 65. Branch County has the highest amount of COVID-19 related deaths of the three counties in the C.H.A.’s jurisdiction.
Hospitals in Branch, Hillsdale and St Joseph Counties also received shipments to vaccinate their front-line workers.
The Health Agency says clinics are not open at this time to the general public.
Vaccine distribution for Phase 1A is limited and prioritized to persons in healthcare settings who are exposed to patients or infectious materials and are unable to work from home, as well as residents of long-term care facilities.
Follow-up communications will be released once the phase is over.
It will be several months before supply increases enough to vaccinate everyone, therefore distribution of the vaccine in Michigan will be in a phased approach.
Health Officer Rebecca Burns says, “The prioritization guidance emphasizes ensuring the continued functioning of the health care system and essential services in the community, and protecting people at increased risk for severe COVID-19 illness. We understand that many are anxious to receive the vaccine and appreciate everyone’s patience.”
The Health Agency will announce on its website and Facebook as each priority group in phase one is addressed and any public clinic dates and times as they become available. They are not currently making appointments or keeping a list of people who are interested in getting the COVID-19 vaccine.
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