(WBEN) - New York State is expanding the list of people who can receive the COVID-19 Vaccine as of Monday, and there are now several ways to see if you can see if you are eligible and rtegister for your shot.
You can check to see if you're currently eligible to get the vaccine AT THIS LINK. Those who are eligible should be able to make an appointment to get the vaccine through the website after filling out the screening questions. The state will also open a vaccine hotline at 4:00PM Monday for scheduling vaccination appointments. That number is 1-833-NYS-4-VAX (1-833-697-4829).
State officials warn that the demand will likely far outpace the supply to start, so a timely appointment to get a shot is not a guarantee.
"We realize that there is intense interest in getting the COVID-19 vaccine," said Erie County Health Commissioner Dr. Gale Burstein. "Right now, we need to temper that interest with patience. Our supply of vaccine is extremely limited. As Governor Cuomo has stated, it will take months to work through the Phase 1A and 1B populations."
The County stresses that no vaccine appointments will be made over the phone at this time. Health care workers who are part of Phase 1a will continue to be vaccinated at hospitals and other clinical settings. People age 75 and over will primarily be vaccinated at pharmacies and other sites that are part of the "retail network" and will likely need to use the online tool to find a location. Public employees such as police officers and teachers will primarily be vaccinated through their groups' relevant health programs or as organized by their unions.
