South Dakota is leading the nation in COVID-19 vaccination distribution,
a proud accomplishment that means faster immunization for the next group
of eligible recipients, and eventually the entire state.
Aligned with the nationwide rollout, healthcare workers and long-term care
residents are first to receive the vaccine. Because of the rapid implementation
to this group, South Dakota can start public vaccinations ahead of schedule,
a testament to the responsive actions of state and healthcare officials.
By early next month, we anticipate the next tier of recipients—people
over age 65 and those with two or more underlying health conditions—can
receive the first dose of the vaccine. This is a large population of our
community, which makes the accomplishment even more important as the vaccination
will help protect this vulnerable group.
At CDP Health Care System, we are working closely with the South Dakota
Department of Health, and will provide updates as they develop. As the
health department determines the timing of distribution, find the latest
information on their website at
https://doh.sd.gov/COVID/Vaccine/Public.aspx.
As we anticipate moving to the next priority group, we are finalizing the
logistics of administering the vaccine at CDP Health Care. Qualified recipients
will need two doses. After the first shot, recipients receive a vaccination
card that tells them which COVID-19 vaccine they’ve received, the
date it was administered, and where it was given. Recipients can also
ask providers about v-safe, a free, smartphone-based tool that sends informational
texts, health updates and reminds recipients when the second dose should
be received. Learn more about v-safe at
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/safety/vsafe.html
We will continue to provide updates on this exciting advancement to protect
our community from COVID-19. While the latest information is available
on the South Dakota Health Department website, if you have questions or
would like to be placed on COVID-19 waiting list, please direct call to
our Sisseton Clinic during regular business hours, Monday – Friday
from 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. at 605-698-7681.