Orofino,Idaho-Window on the Clearwater
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Public Health prepares for vaccine rollout to people over the age of 65

LEWISTON-Per Governor Brad Little's vaccine prioritization Idaho is continuing to roll out the COVID-19 vaccine across the state to first responders, K-12 teachers and staff, and others in the first phase of vaccinations.

The next priority group, people over the age of 65, will become eligible on Feb. 1. Public Health -Idaho North Central District's(PH-INCD)5counties (Latah, Nez Perce, Clearwater, Lewis, and Idaho) have an estimated 22,000 people that fall into this priority group. Currently, PH-INCD on average is receiving 1,375 total doses per week. Vaccine supply continues to be limited and as a result, appointments for the vaccine are limited and PH-INCD and area vaccine providers anticipate a significant surge in demand.PH-INCD and area vaccine providers will begin scheduling appointments for the 65 years of age priority group beginning on Feb. 1.

PH-INCD has a list of vaccine providers helping in this effort at idahopublichealth.com. To schedule an appointment with PH-INCD please visit https://healthandwelfare.idaho.gov/covid-19-vaccination search for a vaccine clinic near by. Please check back regularly as clinics will fill up fast. As more vaccine is allocated to North Central Idaho's five counties, more appointments will become available.

Due to COVID-19safety precautions and availability, vaccine appointments are required. They will not be accepting any walk-in appointments. They ask everyone to make every effort to keep their scheduled vaccine appointment and if not able to do so, please contact PH-INCD to cancel.

Please know for the appointment:

1. People will need to wear a mask when entering the facility.
2. People must be asymptomatic at the time of their visit.
3. People may not bring anyone else with them for the vaccination.
4. People will not be billed for their vaccination.
5. This vaccination does require two doses and people will book their second vaccination at the time of their initial vaccination.
6. People must be prepared to stay in the vaccination area for at least 15 minutes after receipt of the vaccination.
7. Please do not schedule a vaccine if one has tested positive for COVID-19 within the past 10 days.

Future vaccine dates will be available. Current estimates are that by early summer 2021, enough vaccine will be available for everyone who is recommended to receive the vaccine. There will be no out-of-pocket costs to individuals for the vaccine; however, vaccine providers may bill insurance for administrative costs.

The COVID-19 vaccine will require two doses, separated by three or four weeks depending on the manufacturer. Idahoans should receive both doses in order to have full protection from the virus. Individuals who receive the vaccine may experience mild side effects such as low-grade fever, sore arm and fatigue, which indicate that the vaccine is working.

Once again, PH-INCD asks for patience from the community as they do their best in this vaccination effort.

For more information about the novel coronavirus please visit https://idahopublichealth.com/district-2/novel-coronavirus or call the Public Health Hotline at 1-866-736-6632.

Window on the Clearwater
P.O. Box 2444
Orofino, ID 83544
Phone: (208) 476-0733
Fax: (208) 476-4140
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