Hundreds show interest in COVID-19 vaccine

Some Sanders County residents will begin receiving the required second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine as Clark Fork Valley Hospital (CFVH) prepares to receive another vaccine shipment this week.

CFVH reported that 116 staff members and 47 other individuals meeting the Phase 1A parameters have been vaccinated and that, as of Monday, additional vaccines were given to high-risk individuals meeting the 1B distribution guidelines in order to not waste vaccine supplies.

More than 800 people had completed a CFVH survey online gauging interest in the COVID-19 vaccine.

Residents receiving the vaccine have reported minor reactions to the vaccine, including soreness in the vaccination area, chills and minor fatigue the next day, said Lisa Eberhardt, head of nursing at CFVH.

On Tuesday, Montana moved to Phase 1B of the vaccine distribution plan. Vaccines are available to Montanans 70 years or older, age 16-69 with a high-risk medical condition, and Native Americans and other persons of color who may be at elevated risk for COVID-19 complications, according to the Department of Public Health and Human Services

“Focusing on the most vulnerable Montanans in our vaccine distribution will save lives. Thanks to the hard work of our local health jurisdictions and health care workers, Montana’s most vulnerable now have access to safe and effective COVID-19 vaccines,” Gov. Greg Gianforte said.

As of Tuesday, 57,221 doses of the vaccine have been administered in Montana and 9,408 in the state have been fully immunized with the two required doses. Individuals in Phase 1B are encouraged to contact their local county or tribal health departments to check on vaccination availability and scheduling. More information can be found at dphhs.mt.gov.