While Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced Monday that those with comorbidities would be able to begin signing up for the COVID-19 vaccine this coming Sunday – the Finger Lakes region’s vaccine task force is asking for everyone to wait.
The mixed messaging comes 24 hours after the announcement from state officials, who indicated that health departments would be managing the process.
The hub said that local health departments and counties are still working with the state to create and implement a process for vaccinating people with comorbidities, according to News10NBC. They further noted that right now, county health departments and doctors do not have any additional information about how vaccination for those with comorbidities will work at this time.
Here’s a look at the full-statement from the Finger Lakes Vaccine Hub, per News10NBC:
“New York State expanded eligibility for the COVID-19 vaccine to people with many chronic conditions beginning Feb. 15.
The Governor has asked local health departments to determine how, when and where to schedule appointments in their jurisdictions. Local health departments and counties are working with New York State to create and implement a process for vaccinating people with comorbidities. That process is not in place yet.
Until that process is in place, please do not call your doctor’s office or your local health department. They will not be able to offer information about the vaccine process until they receive guidance from the state. Keep in mind vaccine supply and distribution change frequently according to state guidelines.
Vaccine doses remain extremely limited in the nine-county Finger Lakes region. Health care systems are focusing on vaccinating health care workers, as directed by NYS. Please refrain from calling your doctor or your health department until more guidance comes from the state.
We know many are eager to be vaccinated, and we ask for patience.
Thank you.”
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