Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds on Thursday laid out the state’s plan in the COVID-19 vaccination process while pleading for the public to be patient.
Reynolds said that starting Feb. 1, Iowans age 65 and older will be eligible for the vaccine. That will cover around 500,000 Iowans.
However, the demand will far exceed the supply.
Currently, Iowa is receiving around 19,500 vaccinations per week. That number is expected to rise to 39,000 per week the week of Feb. 9.
Reynolds said that in early February, law enforcement, first responders, teachers and child care workers will be eligible to receive the vaccine. She said that accounts for around 130,000 Iowans.
“You can see this is no small undertaking,” Reynolds said. “I can’t emphasize enough that Iowans need to be patient, vaccines are coming. There is good news on the horizon, it’s just going to take some time.”
Reynolds said the latest phase of vaccinations include five tiers, beginning with those 65 and older.