Covid 19 Vaccine: Limited Supply and who gets First?

The long-awaited covid 19 is finally here- a vital step towards curbing the novel coronavirus that is plaguing the whole world. It is said to be safe, effective with mild side effects that are short-lived. However, for the time being, there will be a wide gap between the demand and supply of the vaccine in which the demand is expected to be far higher than the supply. That is why the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) rolls out to the local, state, and federal governments on who should be vaccinated first. The aim is to decrease the effects of the disease and the death rate, while also lessening the extra burden that the coronavirus has placed on those that are more vulnerable. Here, Robert Pinero, a man dedicated to serving the veteran community by educating and consulting delves deeper on who is likely to get Pfizer Inc’s COVID-19 vaccine first in view of the initial supply of the vaccine and how VA is handling the issues.

Healthcare workers and residents of long-term care facilities are the first inline

VA has worked with CDC and other federal partners to develop a phased plan as there is a limited supply of the vaccine at this time. And this means that the first distribution will go for those at the front line: VA health care personnel and veterans living at the long-term care facilities and Spinal cord injury and Disorder Centers. “Hospitals, ICU’s, and many other medical units have experienced an overwhelming surge in coronavirus cases, hospitalizations, and covid related deaths,” Robert Pinero says. “This can be draining to both their physical and mental health and it is only fair that these frontline heroes be considered first for the covid 19 vaccinations so that they can be in good shape and help in taking care of people during this pandemic,” he adds. The point is VA healthcare are more at high risk as they have a higher exposure to covid 19. The need for vaccination is more important than ever in order to meet the increasing health needs of veterans.

Those who are at risk of severe illness are the next

After the front liners have been vaccinated, the next allocation will be for those who are at risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and death from covid 19. These are veterans who are upto 75 years of age or older and those residents of other group living facilities or nursing homes. Moreover, people with underlying sicknesses such as diabetes, heart diseases, and are considered to be at risk of severe illness and death related to covid 19 are also under this category. The aim is to provide vaccines to all veterans who are more vulnerable and under the care and to all employees who are looking after their well being

Veterans appointments for vaccines

If you are eligible for vaccinations, you do not need to come to the VA facility or make a reserve of vaccines. Appointments will be made only after the VA team has contacted you and this will only be based on the VA and CDC risk criteria. It is important to note here that many veterans will not be able to get the vaccine at the first rollout. However, as more vaccines are being supplied, VA will ensure many more veterans are taking care of in regards to covid 19 vaccinations as soon as possible. Going to a VA facility without earlier contact from them is likely to increase the risk of exposure to covid 19. The last anyone thing will wish to happen.

“As more vaccines are being supplied, the VA will carry you along on your options. It is important to note here that the vaccination is not compulsory and it is your choice whether you are in for the vaccine or not. These decisions will not in any way affect your VA care or any other benefits,” Robert Pinero concludes.