More Georgians will be able to receive the COVID-19 vaccine.
During a COVID-19 Vaccine update on Wednesday, Governor Brian Kemp announced the state is expanding the criteria for individuals who want to be vaccinated. Georgians who are 55 and older and Georgians who have certain serious health conditions will be able to register beginning March 15th at 6 a.m.
Currently, in Georgia, ten mass vaccination sites are open. Individuals who meet the criteria can get vaccinated at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, the Albany Georgia Forestry Site, the Delta Air Lines Museum in Hapeville, the Habersham County Fair Grounds in Clarkesville, and the Macon Farmer’s Market. Beginning March 17th, the following mass vaccination sites will open; the Columbus Civic Center, Gulfstream Aerospace in Savannah, the Lake Point Sports Complex in Cartersville, the Mall at Waycross Shopping Center, and Word of Life Church in Sandersville.
In addition, Kroger, CVS, Walmart, Ingles, Walgreens, and Sam’s Club also are offering the vaccine at all locations. The Georgia Department of Health’s website list more providers.
During the press update, Public Health Commissioner, Kathleen Toomey outlined the list of serious health conditions that are now included in the expanded criteria.
• Overweight and obesity (BMI > 25 kg)
• Pulmonary Fibrosis
• Sickle Cell Disease
• Thalassemia
• Asthma (moderate to severe)
• Cancer
• Cerebrovascular Disease
• Chronic Kidney Disease
• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
• Cystic Fibrosis
• Diabetes
• Hypertension
• Heart conditions
• Immunocompromised state
• Liver disease
• Neurologic conditions (Dementia, ALS, Parkinson’s)
Governor Kemp also stressed that as the data changes and the increase of supply and demand, the state would swiftly move to expand the criteria continually. He added that “all of this gets us back to normal,” and he wants “the economy to be robust.”
One point mentioned by both Kemp and Dr. Toomey was that individuals could preregister for the vaccine at MyVaccineGeorgia.com. Dr. Toomey also shared that individuals 55 years or older who previously registered for the vaccine do not need to register again and will be added to the list.
Overall, nearly 2.5 million Georgians have been administered the COVD-19 vaccine.