Pharmacists prepare doses of the COVID-19 vaccine at the Life Care Center of Kirkland on Dec. 28, 2020 in Kirkland, Washington. The nursing home was an early epicenter for coronavirus outbreaks in the U.S.
Karen Ducey / Getty Images
Pa. Dept. of Health clarifies vaccination phases for colleges: Faculty/staff eligible in 1B
Public and private K-12 educators are also included in the phase.
By Jade Campos/WPSU
Karen Ducey / Getty Images
Pharmacists prepare doses of the COVID-19 vaccine at the Life Care Center of Kirkland on Dec. 28, 2020 in Kirkland, Washington. The nursing home was an early epicenter for coronavirus outbreaks in the U.S.
(State College) — Phase 1B of the Pennsylvania Department of Health’s vaccination plan includes people living in “congregate settings.” The category includes people living in correctional facilities, homeless shelters, and rehab facilities. But in response to inquiries from WPSU, DOH deputy press secretary Maggi Barton said college students living in dorms are not included in that group.
Barton said “students, 16 or older, at colleges and universities” are included in Phase 2. They are eligible earlier if they fit the qualifications for other phases, such as having certain health conditions.
Barton said faculty and staff at colleges and universities are eligible to be vaccinated in Phase 1B. The vaccination plan further clarifies that this refers only to those who “cannot work remotely or maintain physical distancing.” Public and private K-12 educators are also included in the phase.
Pennsylvania is currently in Phase 1A of vaccine distribution. The Department of Health expanded the initial phase to include individuals 65 or older and people with certain health conditions.
Barton said the state has a limited supply of vaccines to distribute and that is slowing the process.
“We need all residents to remain vigilant and be patient as we work to accommodate this first phase,” Barton said.
It’s uncertain when Pennsylvania will continue to Phase 1B of the rollout plan.
A collection of interviews, photos, and music videos, featuring local musicians who have stopped by the WITF performance studio to share a little discussion and sound. Produced by WITF’s Joe Ulrich.
