Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) Director Sheila Hogan says Montana has submitted its draft COVID-19 vaccine distribution plan to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for review.

Hogan says she expects feedback from the CDC on the plan next week.

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Hogan said Phase 1 of the plan covers the first two months from when the state receives its first shipment of the vaccine...which is still in development... and targets people at the highest risk of life-threatening infection and Montana’s critical infrastructure workforce. The plan provides a framework for how critical populations are defined for the COVID-19 vaccine in accordance with federal guidance.

Phase 2 of the plan will continue targeting the critical workforce, second dose vaccines will be provided as needed, and vaccine distribution will be expanded to other prioritized groups.

As vaccine availability continues to increase, Phase 3 will help ensure every Montanan who wants a vaccination is able to obtain one.

Hogan stressed that the current plan is based on information known at this time, and there are still many unknowns...including when a vaccine will be available.

We have more information on this story, including a link to the official draft of the plan, on ksenam.com and k96fm.com.
Hogan added that DPHHS plans to establish two key advisory groups that will guide the effective vaccination effort. An internal COVID-19 Vaccination Planning Advisory Group will be comprised of subject matter experts in communicable disease, immunization, and public health preparedness.

A broader COVID-19 Vaccination Plan Coordination Team will be comprised of stakeholders from various sectors across the state, many of whom are established key COVID-19 crisis response partners. This team will include, but not limited, health systems and hospitals, local health departments, Tribal governments, various congregate settings and others.

“Our plan recognizes the importance of a collaborative response,” Hogan said. “We look forward to coordinating with our strong network of local partners that we already communicate with on a regular basis.”

To view Montana’s COVID-19 vaccination plan, click HERE.

- News Release 10-19-20 DPHHS -

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