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Nebraskans who have underlying medical conditions, work in high-risk settings, or are 65 years and older, are now eligible for a COVID-19 booster shot. Plus, children ages 5 to 11 could be eligible for the COVID vaccine by next week. The Southwest Nebraska Public Health Department is preparing to get more shots in people’s arms.
The department will start scheduling booster shots next week. They’re reaching out to long term care facilities too. Health Director Myra Stoney said clinics are set up throughout the district and as more kids are eligible for the COVID shot, vaccines will be available.
"We're very excited about it," she said. "We know we've had parents call who are ready to get their younger children vaccinated and it'll be a great option for those who are ready to get it done."
About 30% of Nebraskans in the district’s nine counties are fully vaccinated. Stoney said their local newspaper campaigns helped residents find clinics and call the department for questions about the vaccine.
"We're taking every one shot as a victory," she said.
Stoney encourages parents to call the department at (308) 345-4223 if they have questions about whether or not to get their children vaccinated.