FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: March 5, 2021
Contact: Black Hawk County Health Department
Phone: 319-291-2413
publichealth@blackhawkcounty.iowa.gov
On March 4th, 2021 the Iowa Department of Public Health announced that beginning Monday, March 8th, Iowa vaccine providers can officially begin vaccinating additional priority populations. Individuals 64 years of age and younger with medical conditions that are or may be an increased risk of severe illness from COVID-19 are now eligible. Additional information regarding these conditions can be found on the CDC website. These conditions include the following:
• Cancer
• Chronic kidney disease
• COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease)
• Down Syndrome
• Heart conditions, such as heart failure, coronary artery disease, or cardiomyopathies
• Immunocompromised state (weakened immune system) from solid organ transplant
• Obesity (body mass index [BMI] of 30 kg/m2 or higher but < 40 kg/m2)
• Severe Obesity (BMI ≥ 40 kg/m2)
• Pregnancy
• Sickle cell disease
• Smoking
• Type 2 diabetes mellitus
This announcement comes as several Iowa counties have reported they are nearing completion for vaccinating previous priority population groups. Black Hawk County is currently planning the transition to Phase 1C in support of this new guidance. There will be a period of adjustment as we move forward into Phase 1C, and continue vaccination efforts for residents age 65 and older. Previous priority populations remain eligible as we move into the new Phase.
Because vaccine production has not fully met the demand for vaccine, Black Hawk County residents will need to remain patient as vaccine production increases. While this announcement opens a large population group up to the possibility of vaccination, it is important to note that our vaccination efforts for those in schools and daycares, manufacturing facilities and the 65+ population are ongoing. We are releasing information as fast as we can and will do our best to keep you updated in a timely manner
At this time, the State 211 Call Center is still only for Iowans age 65 and older who need assistance scheduling an appointment and don’t have access to the technology to do so.
It’s critical that the community continues to practice the mitigation measures that can slow the spread of the COVID-19 virus. We are getting close, but we are not there yet. Vaccinated Iowans should continue these precautions as we are still learning whether getting a vaccine will prevent you from spreading the virus that causes COVID-19 to other people, even if you don’t get sick yourself. Please consider the following measures:
• Wear a mask or face covering
• Practice social distancing with those outside your household
• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water
• Stay home if you feel sick
• Get tested if you are exposed to, or have symptoms of COVID-19
• Get a COVID-19 vaccine when you are eligible
For information and updates related to COVID-19, visit www.blackhawkcovid19.com and follow us on Facebook (@BlackHawkCountyHealthDepartment) and Twitter (@BHCHD).
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