Starting today (Feb. 22, 2021), the South Dakota Department of Health has lowered the age of those who qualify to receive their COVID-19 vaccination to those who are 65 and over.
State Health Secretary Kim Malsam-Rysdon says the announcement comes as the Department of Health and Phase I vaccinators have been making significant progress within Group D of the state’s vaccination plan over the past few weeks.
“It is exciting that given our orderly and well planned vaccination strategy, coupled with the dedication of our medical professionals across our state, we are in such a strong position when it comes to vaccination efforts. These factors, in addition to increased vaccine allocations, has allowed us to progress through Group D efficiently and open up vaccination statewide to those over 65 starting Monday.”
Malsam-Rysdon says this follows two weeks in which South Dakota’s eligible vaccination age has been dropped by 5-year increments. Over this period, the state’s federal vaccine allocation has increased to 17,660 weekly doses— not including those received by the VA and IHS. Additionally, the Federal Retail Pharmacy Program was activated and additional new tools were unveiled for the public’s use regarding vaccination planning and general information.
For additional information and the latest COVID-19 resources, visit COVID.SD.GOV.
Some informational tools include:
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