PIERRE, S.D. (AP) - The South Dakota Department of Health announced Wednesday that the state is expanding the list of people eligible for the coronavirus vaccine.
The remainder of individuals in the priority group D who are now eligible include teachers, childcare workers, college staff, college students and funeral workers.
“Given South Dakota’s strong position on vaccination efforts and the increased points of access for vaccine distribution and administration, we are happy to fully open up Phase D starting today,” Secretary of Health Kim Malsam-Rysdon said. “Getting vaccinated against COVID-19 is a significant step in getting back to normal, and I encourage those eligible to schedule their vaccination today.”
Health officials say South Dakota has been making significant progress moving down the list of vaccination priority groups. Those that have already been eligible include healthcare workers, long-term care residents, emergency medical service workers, law enforcement, persons aged over 65 years old, high risk patients and those with underlying medical conditions.
Healthcare providers have administered 262,250 doses of the COVID-19 vaccine. More than 86,000 people have received two doses.
The Department of Health also said 30% of the state’s population has received at least one dose.
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