The Wyoming Department of Health (WDH) submitted its initial plan for administering a COVID-19 vaccine to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), according to an Oct. 21 press release from the governor’s office.
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CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Department of Health (WDH) submitted its initial plan for administering a COVID-19 vaccine to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), according to an Oct. 21 press release from the governor’s office.
While the timing of the vaccine’s availability remains unknown at this time, the WDH is working to be ready as soon as one becomes available, the release said. The draft plan utilizes much of the vaccine ordering, distribution, administration and reporting infrastructure already in use by the WDH and is expected to change over time and be continually updated as the state learns more details about the vaccine and the pandemic’s progression.
The current plan includes a three-phased approach to distributing the vaccine. According to the plan, phases 1a and 1b are based on a limited supply of COVID-19 vaccine doses and will include distribution first to healthcare personnel. Phase 2 is based on a greater supply and will prioritize critical populations that may include “additional critical workers, people with underlying conditions, those in congregate settings, and people with limited access to vaccination services” and later will be provided to “all people recommended to receive the vaccine. During phase 3, which is based on a “likely sufficient supply, slower demand,” vaccines will be available to all who are recommended to be vaccinated.
Groups may change depending on federal guidance and specific vaccine details, according to the plan. The entire tentative plan is available at https://health.wyo.gov/publichealth/immunization/wyoming-covid-19-vaccine-information/.
According to the release, Governor Mark Gordon said Wyoming will not recommend and distribute a vaccine without being assured of its safety.
Gordon also gave a press conference on Oct. 21 during which he said the increased amount of COVID-19 cases in the state is no longer a curve but a “straight line headed upwards.” As of press time Tuesday, there are 3,448 active cases statewide and 9,396 total positive cases. Niobrara County currently has four active cases, seven total, according to WDH.
At the Oct. 21 press conference, State Health Officer, Dr. Alexia Harrist said the small number of cases throughout Wyoming schools demonstrates the effectiveness of face coverings, which are required at every district.