OSDH: Oklahomans In Phase 3 Eligible For COVID-19 Vaccine Starting Tuesday

OSDH Deputy Commissioner Keith Reed announced Monday that starting Tuesday, March 8, all Oklahomans in Phase 3 priority groups will be eligible to get the vaccine.

The state includes the following groups in Phase 3 of Oklahoma's vaccine plan: Teachers, students, residents and administrative staff in educational settings outside PreK-12, including childcare facilities, early childhood facilities, colleges, universities, career/vocational technology centers, and other post-secondary institutions as may be eligible for the vaccine.

The Phase 3 also includes essential business workers in critical infrastructure as well.

You can find the full list of essential industries here.

Reed said that different parts of the state are getting through Oklahomans in Phases 1 and 2 at different rates, which is why the state is able to open up eligibility to those in Phase 3.

As we see some of that capacity available throughout the state, that is our trigger point to open up for more," Reed said.

Reed encouraged all Oklahomans to schedule an appointment as soon as it becomes available to you. The state said the door remains open to all people in previous groups and reiterated that it is an overlap plan that aims to get as many Oklahomans access to the vaccine as possible.

Both Reed and Dr. Lance Frye urge continued vigilance even as case numbers decline and vaccinations increase in the state.

"COVID is still dangerous. We are worried about people letting their guards down. Every life is precious, so we all need to continue to be vigilant," Reed said.

Watch the live update here.

You can find more information about the state's phases for vaccine distribution here.