PHS plans to offer vaccine to 65+ age group after Jan. 22

CRETE, NE — Public health officials in southeast Nebraska say they’re working to distribute COVID-19 vaccines efficiently despite changing government directions.

Public Health Solutions covers Fillmore, Gage, Jefferson, Saline and Thayer counties. In a news release, officials said federal and state priorities are changing rapidly. The health department says it is planning to offer vaccinations to people 65 and older and those with chronic health conditions when it moves to the 1B phase of distribution. PHS plans to move to that phase after Jan. 22.

Last week, the health department said the 1B phase would include those 75 and older and would offer the vaccine starting Jan. 18. PHS says the current timeline depends on how much vaccine is available. The district is only using the Moderna vaccine.

PHS says it wants people 65 and older and those with chronic health conditions to be vaccinated by their healthcare provider. The health department will provide community clinics for those without a primary care provider.

PHS launched a vaccine registration form. People can fill it out and their primary care provider or the health department will contact them when the vaccine is available.