Minnesota is launching a COVID-19 vaccine pilot program, partnering with local public health and school districts, Gov. Tim Walz announced today.
These sites will initially serve adults 65 years of age and older, as well as pre-kindergarten through Grade 12 educators, school staff and child care workers. The community vaccination pilot program will be the foundation for mass vaccination clinics in Minnesota communities once the federal government increases vaccine supply. The nine pilot sites will launch this week with a small number of doses for eligible Minnesotans.
Gov. Walz said, “We are building for the future and doing what we can to get more shots to Minnesotans right now,” and “By beginning to serve those age 65 and older, educators and child care workers, it’s a step in the right direction on this long road to recovery.”
Monday’s announcement expands the priority populations eligible for a vaccine right now. Additional details on Phase 1b are dependent on decisions to be made by the federal government and will available in the weeks ahead.
Vaccine eligible Minnesotans can get a shot as supplies allow through either their healthcare provider or the pilot community vaccinations sites. Regardless of location, Minnesotans are required to have an appointment to get a shot.
Eligible Minnesotans will be able to schedule an appointment at one of the nine pilot sites launching around the state. Sites will begin offering vaccines on Thursday, Friday and Saturday of this week. MDH will provide more information and will make appointment scheduling available at approximately noon on Tuesday, January 19th.
There are a very small number of doses and appointments available at these pilot sites. Minnesotans should not visit a healthcare provider or pilot site unless they have an appointment.