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Utah snowbirds can receive COVID-19 vaccine in either home county

UPDATED: JANUARY 25, 2021 AT 6:29 PM

Kathy and Bud Scott pose for a photograph at their home Thursday, Dec. 3, 2020, in West Valley, Utah. Many snowbirds who live part time in warmer climates to escape cold weather won't be flocking south this winter. (AP Photo/Rick Bowmer)

BY SIMONE SEIKALY
Digital Content Producer

SALT LAKE CITY — Utah snowbirds, or those that split their time between the northern and southern parts of the state, can receive a COVID-19 vaccine in either area.

The process begins, said David Heaton with the Southwest Utah Public Health Department, by making an appointment online.

“If you live here [in southern Utah] part-time, whether you rent or own if you can show just some kind of proof of that address linked to your name, we consider you a resident,” Heaton told KSL Newsradio.

“Anyone that’s living here full-time or part-time, we’re serving both of those groups.”

Right now, the COVID-19 vaccine is delivered in two separate doses. Heaton said that if a Utah snowbird receives their first dose in northern Utah, it shouldn’t be a problem if they request the second dose in southern Utah.

The only requirement, beyond requesting the vaccination during your allotted time period (based on your type of work, co-morbidities, and age) is that you request the vaccination in your county of residence.

“Our vaccine shipments are distributed according to population,” Heaton said. “If you live in St. George [including part-time residents] then you have to sign up in Washington County and get your vaccine there.”

There are over 35,000 people who are age 70 and older living in Washington County, and at this point according to Heaton, the state only sends “a couple thousand doses” of the vaccine to the county each week.

KSL Newsradio reporter Dan Bammes contributed to this report.

How To Prevent the Spread of COVID-19 Coronavirus

COVID-19 coronavirus spreads person to person, similar to the common cold and the flu. So, to prevent it from spreading:

Wash hands frequently and thoroughly, with soap and water, for at least 20 seconds.
Don’t touch your face.
Wear a mask to protect yourself and others per CDC recommendations.
Keep children and those with compromised immune systems away from someone who is coughing or sneezing (in this instance, at least six feet).
If there is an outbreak near you, practice social distancing (stay at home, instead of going to the movies, sports events, or other activities).
Get a flu shot.