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Coping with COVID: Missouri proceeds with second tier of Phase 1B COVID-19 vaccine shots on Monday

By Madison Parry

The next phase of COVID-19 vaccine distribution has begun in Missouri, the state beginning Phase 1B, tier two today. The new round covers high-risk individuals, which includes adults 65 and older with underlying conditions.

As Tier 1 of Missouri’s Phase 1B COVID-19 vaccination plan came to a close over the weekend, the state announced the start of Tier 2 on Monday, Jan. 18.

Phase 1B, Tier 2 focuses on high-risk individuals, vaccination aimed at protecting those who are at increased risk for severe illness from COVID-19, according to a Priority Phases 1B document from MOStopsCovid.com

Tier 2 includes anyone aged 65 and older and adults with a variety of conditions from chronic diseases to cancer.

In addition to those listed under Tier 2 as eligible for the vaccine are pregnant women, individuals with Type 2 Diabetes and those with intellectual disabilities such as Down Syndrome.

Under Phase 1B are a total of three tiers. Although Tier 2 has already begun, it has not yet been announced when Tier 3 vaccines will begin.

Those who qualify are instructed to check with their pharmacy or health care provider.

According to Missouri Gov. Mike Parson’s office, 160,000 Missourians have received their first dose of the vaccine so far, while 22,000 have received the second dose and are considered fully vaccinated.