The Arkansas Department of Health provided an update on the status of COVID-19 vaccinations on Tuesday, January 19:
Though the development of a COVID-19 vaccine has followed an accelerated timeline, safety has been the top priority.
Vaccinations began in Arkansas shortly after authorization was granted for the initial vaccine. The initial recipients in Arkansas are health care workers and residents of long-term care facilities.
There won’t be enough vaccine initially for all adults who want to receive it. Supply will increase into 2021, and additional vaccines may also be authorized.
Who’s getting the vaccine now?
Phase 1-B has started, which means vaccinations are happening now for Arkansans who are 70 or older as well as those who work in education including K-12, child care and higher ed. Vaccinations can also continue for groups in Phase 1-A, including health care workers, residents and staff at long-term care facilities and these high priority groups: EMS, fire and law enforcement who serve as first responders, primary care, urgent care, college/university student health center, K-12 health clinics and school nurses, dental clinics, pharmacies, home health, private care/personal care, hospice care, dialysis centers, correctional staff involved in patient care and transfer, morticians/funeral home staff involved in direct contact or conducting transports and blood donation centers.
Who’s getting the vaccine next?
As supply increases in the coming weeks, the groups eligible to receive vaccine under Phase 1-B will expand. Later, we will move into Phase 1-C.
The chart below details the plans for Phases 1-B and Phase 1-C.
How can I get the vaccine?
If you are a long-term care resident or staff member, you will likely receive the vaccine through a clinic at the facility. If you work in a hospital, you will likely receive the vaccine through a clinic at your worksite. Others who are in 1-A can receive the vaccine through a community-based pharmacy. Click here for a map and full list of those pharmacies around the state.
Arkansans who are 70 and older can also make an appointment at a community pharmacy beginning on Jan. 18. Vaccine clinics and events may also be available in your area through hospitals and health care providers. For those who work in education, the district, facility or college/university should determine how many doses are needed, and then reach out to an ADH Local Health Unit or a community pharmacy to schedule a vaccination clinic.
Scott and Sebastian County participating pharmacies:
