Working in tandem with state and federal guidance, Chester County health officials are planning to begin a schedule of Phase 1 vaccinations by the end of December. Initial Phase 1 groups include EMS providers, all types of healthcare personnel, the elderly, and persons with high-risk medical conditions. 

Chester County Health Department staff has been meeting with local healthcare providers and an advisory committee that includes representatives from human services organizations, education providers, emergency management, vulnerable populations, faith-based organizations, correctional facilities, business sectors, and nonprofits. Also, staff within the Health Department are facilitating a COVID-19 vaccine administration network to enhance vaccine access throughout Chester County. This network includes private healthcare providers, pharmacies, clinics, hospitals, community service organizations, and mass vaccination events.

“Our goal is for everyone to be vaccinated against COVID-19 as soon as enough quantities of the vaccine are available, and our plans will make this happen,” said Jeanne Casner, Director of the Chester County Health Department. “Initial availability of the vaccine will be limited, and so will be distributed in a phased approach.”

As with all other crucial communication about COVID-19, the Chester County Health Department has published a comprehensive vaccination page that can be found by clicking here.

The vaccine web page includes details of the current approved vaccines, vaccine availability, safety, and potential side effects, as well as a full list of Phase 1 groups. As more vaccines become available, the web page will provide regularly updated information on vaccination groups and vaccination schedules and locations. 

“After more than nine months of living with this pandemic, we are experiencing a historical moment with the development of a COVID-19 vaccine,” said Casner. “But we must remember that the COVID-19 vaccine will not be the cure for the virus. The vaccine will be another tool in our fight against COVID-19, and we must continue to think of, and care for others by wearing a mask, remaining six-feet apart, and washing our hands thoroughly and often.”