March 30, 2021
When the COVID-19 vaccine first became available, supply was limited, and a phased approach was developed to prioritize individuals who were eligible for the vaccine. Now there are multiple vaccines approved for use and supply is increasing.
Many states are moving quickly through the phased eligibility and have opened availability NOW for those aged 16 and older with the remaining states opening by no later than May 1, 2021. In addition, vaccination providers occasionally have extra doses available that need to be administered timely so that they do not go to waste even if you are not yet eligible.
Each state and vaccine provider are different, but if you are interested in getting the COVID-19 vaccine, it is important that you register with your county or state. Being registered means that if you are eligible for the vaccine, and there are appointments available, you will be able to schedule your appointment. Registering with your county or state does not prevent you from registering with the Federal Retail Pharmacy Program, or other private vaccine providers, but you should only register once with each resource. In addition, most local healthcare providers have their own scheduling systems. Be sure to check with your local healthcare provider (via website, app, or phone) regarding your ability to schedule a vaccine appointment.
The following links can be used to locate state and local links for vaccine appointments and/or registration:
Federal Retail Pharmacy Program: https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/covid-19/retail-pharmacy-program/participating-pharmacies.html
Participation in this registration process is completely voluntary. We are offering this information to assist employees who are interested in getting vaccinated.
The following is a link to CDC’s website detailing the safety and effectiveness of COVID vaccinations: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/index.html
MAYO CLINIC UPDATE: https://www.news8000.com/mayo-clinic-health-system-announces-2000-vaccine-appointments-available-this-week/
Mayo Clinic Health System has around 2,000 COVID-19 vaccine appointments available during the week of March 29th. The increase is thanks to an unexpected shipment of doses Mayo received. It includes 1,100 doses of the Pfizer vaccine and 1,000 doses of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine
You do not need to be a patient at Mayo to obtain the vaccine there. Vaccines are available through the La Crosse, Arcadia, Sparta, and Prairie du Chien clinics. Appointments can be scheduled through Patient Online Services or the Mayo Clinic app. Those without an online account or who are not a patient can call (608) 392-7400.