Pa. coronavirus update: Montgomery County expands vaccine eligibility

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Essential workers in Pennsylvania can now pre-register for the COVID-19 vaccine, state officials announced Monday.

Registration is open for those in the Phase 1B category, which includes first responders, grocery store workers, public transit workers, and faith leaders.

An initiative to get teachers in Pennsylvania vaccinated concluded April 2 and resulted in more than 112,500 vaccinations. All other education workers, including those in higher education, are now eligible for vaccination.

Those registering to get a shot as part of Phase 1B won’t get an appointment for a few more weeks, county officials said Monday. Montgomery County, for instance, is still registering and vaccinating people in Phase 1A, which includes people with serious health conditions.

Officials there say vaccine appointments will be made randomly in an effort to ensure fair access.

Pre-registration for Pennsylvania residents eligible for Phase 1C will open in one week, and in two weeks, pre-registration will be available for all people under age 16.

“Demand for the vaccine remains high, therefore residents are asked for their patience as the vaccine rollout continues. Eligibility does not equal availability. Appointments will be released in accordance with supply,” Montgomery County officials said in a press release.

Pennsylvania’s vaccination plan can be found here.

Those eligible for an appointment can access the provider map available here. People without internet access can contact the Health Hotline by calling 1-877-PA-HEALTH (1-877-724-3258).