Beginning Monday, March 8, the Dallas County Health Department will open eligibility for COVID-19 vaccination to those outlined in Phase 1-B, Tiers 2-3, as well as those 16 years of age and older with underlying health conditions that put them at increased risk for severe illness from COVID-19.
Individuals previously eligible will remain eligible for the duration of the pandemic. People newly eligible as of March 8 include:
- Individuals ages 16-64 who are or might be at an increased risk of severe illness from COVID-19 due to medical conditions listed on the CDC website.
- Individuals with disabilities living in home settings who are dependent on attendant care staff, and their attendant care staff. Further clarification is available on the IDPH website.
- Frontline essential workers in the food, agricultural, distribution and manufacturing sectors who work in or live in congregate settings that do not allow for social distancing. Further clarification is available on the IDPH website.
- Staff of and individuals living in congregate settings, not including college dormitories
- Government officials, including their staff, to ensure continuity of government, who are engaged in state business at the Iowa Capital during the legislative session
This population will include more than 40,000 individuals in Dallas County alone. Demand for vaccine is expected to be larger than the supply currently available. As vaccine supply increases, additional appointments will become available.
There are currently three highly effective vaccines authorized by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for emergency use to prevent COVID-19. The Dallas County Public Health Department encourages individuals to receive the first vaccine available to them.
The Pfizer vaccine is currently authorized for those 16 years of age and older. The Moderna and Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) are authorized for those 18 years of age and older.
To schedule a vaccine, visit vaccinate.iowa.gov and find a provider near you. The Dallas County Public Health Department releases information every Monday at 12 p.m. on where vaccine has been allocated in the county for that week at the department’s website.
In addition, Hy–Vee and CPESN-associated pharmacies are participating in the federal retail pharmacy program and will be receiving vaccine directly from the federal government. Please check these pharmacy’s websites and social media for updates on how to schedule an appointment at their clinics.
The Dallas County Public Health Department schedules vaccination appointments both online and over the phone on Fridays at 12 p.m. for the health department clinic only. Appointments are available first-come-first-served and fill very quickly. More information on the health department clinic can be found at the department’s website.
