National and state health officials predict April will be “open season” for vaccine availability
Feb 11, 2021, 8:53 AM
Lia Smith, a registered nurse assistant, prepares a COVID-19 vaccine at the Mountain America Exposition Center in Sandy on Tuesday, Feb. 9, 2021, where those 70 and older are receiving the vaccination. Utah County recently announced more vaccine available for ages 70+. Photo: Jeffrey D. Allred, Deseret News
SALT LAKE CITY — Dr. Anthony Fauci says April will be “open season” for COVID-19 vaccine availability. And Utah leaders believe it could be by the end of May when all adults in the state could get the vaccine in their arms.
This week Governor Cox said if enough doses come our way, Utah will start getting enough doses to ensure vaccines are available for everyone who wants one by April or May.
Then on Wednesday, the Utah Department of Health Executive Director updated lawmakers about vaccine availability.
“We will reach all of the adult population, if 100% of them wanted it, by the end of May,” Rich Saunders told members of the state Senate Health and Human Services Committee.
Vaccine availability up to drug makers
That’s as long as vaccine makers follow through with the increased doses promised, reported the Deseret News.
Dr. Fauci also talked about availability on The Today Show, saying the pace of coronavirus vaccinations will pick up “as we get into March and April.”
“By the time we get to April, that will be what I would call open season,” Dr. Anthony Fauci says about the timeline for vaccination availability for all groups to begin getting shots. pic.twitter.com/BMGD3YSVex
— TODAY (@TODAYshow) February 11, 2021
He said the vaccine seems to do well against the newer more viral variants.
About 78% of health care workers, first responders, K-12 teachers and staff have gotten at least one dose of the vaccine. 43% of Utahns 70 or older have received one dose.
Starting March 1, Utahns 65 or older as well as those with certain medical conditions will also be able to be vaccinated.
How To Prevent the Spread of COVID-19 Coronavirus
COVID-19 coronaviruses transmitted from person to person. It is a virus that is similar to the common cold and the flu. So, to prevent it from spreading:
- Wash hands frequently and thoroughly, with soap and water, for at least 20 seconds.
- Wear a mask.
- Don’t touch your face.
- Keep children and those with compromised immune systems away from someone who is coughing or sneezing (in this instance, at least six feet)
- If there is an outbreak near you, practice social distancing (stay at home, instead of going to the movies, sports events, or other activities.)
- Get a flu shot.
Local resources
Utah’s Coronavirus Information
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
Utah Coronavirus Information Line – 1-800-456-7707
National Resources
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Commonly asked questions, World Health Organization
