Starting on Friday, Jan. 8, Hoosiers age 80 and older can begin making an appointment to receive the COVID-19 vaccine, Governor Eric Holcomb announced in a press conference today.
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So far, the vaccine has only been available to healthcare workers. Next, the vaccine will be distributed according to age groups. After Hoosiers 80 and older will be those who are 70 and older, then 60 and older, he said.
Holcomb said that Hoosiers 80 and older account for 3.8 percent of the state population, but more than 19 percent of hospitalizations and 52 percent of COVID-19 deaths in the state.
The impact of vaccinating Hoosiers 60 and older could reach 22.5 percent of Hoosiers, who account for 64.1 percent of COVID-19 hospitalizations and 93.3 percent of COVID-19 deaths.
Indiana Health Department of Health Commissioner Dr. Kristina Box said, “By taking an age-focused approach, we can accomplish two tasks: protecting those at greatest risk for adverse consequences like death or hospitalization, and reaching older workers who are more likely to have co-morbidities.”
“We have to continue to practice good health measures,” Holcomb said. “Vigilance is just as key as the vaccine is. One doesn’t replace the other.”
Dr. Lindsay Weaver reported that as of Jan. 6, more than 128,000 Hoosiers have received their first dose of the vaccine. By the end of the month, 300,000 are scheduled to be vaccinated.
To make an appointment, visit ourshot.in.gov starting at 9 a.m. Friday, Jan. 8. Enter your zip code to see a map of vaccination clinics and register yourself or an eligible person using their name and age. People receiving a vaccination must bring a photo ID to the appointment. Family members may make appointments for a senior.
Vaccinations are free and at least one vaccination clinic will be in each county.
This story will be updated.
