The message sent Saturday morning to some Minnesotans saying their appointments for a final COVID-19 vaccination was sent in error by a vendor, according to the Minnesota Department of Health.
In a statement Saturday afternoon, MDH wrote, "Primary Bio, a contractor for Minnesota's COVID-19 vaccine pilot program, sent an erroneous text/email to many Minnesotans this morning saying that their appointment was unauthorized or invalid. A follow-up text/email was sent letting people know that it was an error and their appointments are in fact confirmed. Primary Bio has taken full responsibility and has apologized to the State of Minnesota and all Minnesotans impacted."
Minnesota seniors who had already received one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine reported receiving the message on Saturday morning telling them their second appointment had been canceled.
Some of the Minnesotans 65 and older reported receiving the message several times through text and email. The message read:
“MDH COVID-19 Vaccine Pilot Program 65+, you were able to make a vaccine appointment even though you were not randomly selected. As a result, we regret to inform you that your appointment is unauthorized and no longer valid. As long as you pre-registered for the COVID-19 vaccine pilot program, you will remain on the list for potential future opportunities. Thank you for you patience and understanding. IMPORTANT: Please do not visit any vaccine pilot location. Walk-ins are not accepted and you do not have an appointment at this time.”
Those who received the messaged had reserved vaccination appointments through the state’s pilot program.
