Lia Smith, a registered nurse assistant, prepares a COVID-19 vaccine at the Mountain America Exposition Center in Sandy on Tuesday, Feb. 9, 2021, where those 70 and older are receiving the vaccination. Utah County recently announced more vaccine available for ages 70+. Photo: Jeffrey D. Allred, Deseret News
SALT LAKE CITY — Dr. Anthony Fauci says April will be “open season” for COVID-19 vaccine availability. And Utah leaders believe it could be by the end of May when all adults in the state could get the vaccine in their arms.
This week Governor Cox said if enough doses come our way, Utah will start getting enough doses to ensure vaccines are available for everyone who wants one by April or May.
Then on Wednesday, the Utah Department of Health Executive Director updated lawmakers about vaccine availability.
“We will reach all of the adult population, if 100% of them wanted it, by the end of May,” Rich Saunders told members of the state Senate Health and Human Services Committee.
That’s as long as vaccine makers follow through with the increased doses promised, reported the Deseret News.
Dr. Fauci also talked about availability on The Today Show, saying the pace of coronavirus vaccinations will pick up “as we get into March and April.”
He said the vaccine seems to do well against the newer more viral variants.
About 78% of health care workers, first responders, K-12 teachers and staff have gotten at least one dose of the vaccine. 43% of Utahns 70 or older have received one dose.
Starting March 1, Utahns 65 or older as well as those with certain medical conditions will also be able to be vaccinated.
COVID-19 coronaviruses transmitted from person to person. It is a virus that is similar to the common cold and the flu. So, to prevent it from spreading:
Utah’s Coronavirus Information
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
Utah Coronavirus Information Line – 1-800-456-7707
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Commonly asked questions, World Health Organization