The Mills County Public Health Dept., Monday, said the Iowa Department of Public Health has issued its guidelines for the administration of the next phase (1B) of COVID-19 vaccinations. MCPH officials say they expect authorization to begin administering vaccine to these populations no later than February 1, 2021. This does NOT mean that the vaccine will be available to all eligible individuals on February 1, 2021.

Beginning at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, January 19, 2021, Mills County Public Health will begin accepting names and phone numbers of eligible individuals to be placed on a wait list for vaccine distribution. The phone number to call is (712) 274-3643. This line will be open Monday through Friday 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Individuals that call the Mills County Public Health main office to get on the list will be referred to the correct phone number to contact. Listed below are the population groups who will be eligible to receive vaccinations at that time.

• Persons aged 75 and older.
• First responders (e.g., firefighters, police officers, and social workers).
• PK-12 school staff, early childhood education, and childcare workers.
• Individuals with disabilities living in home settings who are dependent on attendant care staff, and their attendant care staff.
• Individuals and staff living or working in congregate settings.
• Inspectors responsible for health, life and safety.
• Government officials in state business at the Iowa Capitol during the legislative session.

At this time, Mills County Public Health is unaware of the number of vaccines or when the State of Iowa will allocate them to Mills County. Continue to monitor the website, KJAN, and social media, for the release of further information as it becomes available.