INDIANAPOLIS — The Indiana Department of Health on Monday notified first responders in the state they are now eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine.
The vaccine is open to firefighters, law enforcement, emergency medical services, volunteers, and reserve officers. According to the state department of health, the vaccine is available to anyone employed by a first responder agency in a public-facing position that requires in-person contact, increasing the risk for potential exposure to COVID-19.
Dr. Lindsay Weaver, the chief medical officer for the Indiana State Department of Health, told first responders that registrations are being handled through an online portal. The state is encouraging first responders to make an appointment to receive the second dose after they receive their first dose.
The vaccines have been given emergency use authorization from the Food and Drug Administration after completing three phases of testing. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices has also reviewed the vaccine and recommends its use.
The vaccine is available at no cost. The second dose must be administered 21 to 28 days after receiving the first dose to be effective.
