Southwest Montana News

The Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) in Montana is set to distribute 20,930 first doses and 16,990 second doses of the COVID-19 vaccine statewide during the week of February 22. This allocation is part of its weekly supply from the federal government.

This week's distribution marks a slight increase in vaccine doses, partly due to an additional two Pfizer trays, which provide an extra 2,340 doses. The increase also results from a federal adjustment allowing six doses per Pfizer vial instead of five.

DPHHS receives weekly notifications from the federal government about vaccine allocations. While shipments remain low, DPHHS has been assured that current levels will not decrease.

Vaccine distribution across Montana considers factors such as local population estimates for eligible recipients in each phase, previous allocations to providers, and remaining vaccine stock at these locations. DPHHS uses this data to determine specific allocations for local jurisdictions, which are informed every Friday. Local jurisdictions then plan their allocations for the following week.

Montana is currently in Phase 1B of its vaccination plan. In this phase, vaccines are available to residents aged 70 and older, those aged 16 to 69 with high-risk medical conditions, and Native Americans and other persons of color at elevated risk for COVID-19 complications.

As of February 22, a total of 216,383 Montanans have received their first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine while 68,191 people are fully immunized. These figures are updated daily on the state's vaccine dashboard.

For more information on vaccines, Montanans can visit the DPHHS COVID-19 vaccine website. The site includes a map with local resources and updates on vaccine availability. Local jurisdictions continue holding clinics for eligible individuals under Phase 1B and regularly update online information regarding availability.

The DPHHS map links to various online platforms where jurisdictions share scheduling details and availability updates. It also provides contact numbers but advises using online resources first due to high call volumes.

Health officials emphasize maintaining vigilance against COVID-19 spread during vaccination efforts. They encourage Montanans to practice preventive measures: wearing masks, social distancing by staying six feet apart, staying home when sick, covering coughs, frequent hand washing, and avoiding large gatherings.