Gov. Ned Lamont has greatly expanded the number of residents covered under the next phase of the state's COVID-19 vaccination program. But it's unclear when those added will be able to get their shots.
Following a new recommendation from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), Phase 1b will now include those age 65 and older, plus those 16 and older with major medical problems. That brings the Phase 1b population to about 1.3 million, or roughly one-third of the Connecticut population.
But it could take months for the new candidates to get the vaccine. Those 75 and older are first up, and can now make appointments through the state's website, or by calling (877) 918-2224 on weekday mornings and afternoons.
The state hasn't announced which subset of Phase 1b will be next. Dr. Deidre Gifford, co-chair of the governor's Vaccine Advisory Group, says the key word for everyone is, "patience."
She says, "Please be patient. It will take time for us to get to the other members of Phase 1b. We're starting with 75 and above. But it will take time to get to the rest of the people in that category."
