C-19 vaccine arrives in Montgomery County

Montgomery County received the first shipment of the COVID-19 vaccine Monday, Dec. 21. According to Montgomery County Public Health Administrator Samantha Beeson, the county received 300 doses from Moderna.

“Of the 300 doses, 200 doses went directly to Montgomery County Memorial Hospital for their staff and, 100 doses went to Montgomery County Public Health for EMS providers in the county and other healthcare providers not affiliated with the hospital,” said Beeson. “All the long-term care and assisted-living facilities in the county have been paired with a national pharmacy chain to receive vaccines.”

She added the county is currently in Phase 1A of the distribution plan, which includes the groups listed above. After all workers included in Phase 1A are vaccinated, the county will move to Phase 1B.

“Included in Phase 1B are school and childcare staff, people over 65 years of age, people with underlying health conditions, and non-healthcare essential workers,” Beeson said.

Officials with IDPH have indicated the next round of vaccine could arrive in January. The vaccine is expected to be available to the general public by mid-spring 2021.

Those with questions regarding the vaccine to call MCPH at 712-623-4893.