ANNAPOLIS — Gov. Larry Hogan provided an update on Maryland's COVID-19 vaccination plan Thursday.
Hogan stated Maryland is moving into Phase 1B of the state’s COVID-19 Vaccination Plan.
On Jan.18, eligible groups will be expanded statewide to include all Marylanders 75 and older, as well as anyone of any age living in assisted living or independent living facilities, and developmental disabilities and behavioral health group homes.
Those now eligible in Phase 1B also include K-12 teachers, education staff, and child care providers.
Also on Jan. 18, the state is directing all Maryland hospitals and county health departments to begin utilizing their remaining doses by opening Phase 1B clinics focused on the elderly.
For teachers and education staff, the State Superintendent has submitted plans for how each county school system will vaccinate its teachers and critical staff. These plans will be implemented in the coming weeks.
In addition to moving into Phase 1B, Hogan announced the move into Phase 1C on Jan. 25, which will be open to all Maryland residents ages 65-74.
Hogan said that local governments will be granted additional flexibility in utilizing their allocated doses, as long as they continue to prioritize the elderly and most vulnerable.
In anticipation of increased vaccine production, the Maryland Health Department and Maryland National Guard are working with private partners to open mass vaccination sites at central locations.
Hogan is calling on Marylanders to help the elderly make a plan to get vaccinated at http://covidvax.maryland.gov.
