State prepares to offer vaccine to Utahns 18+ with medical conditions

As Utahns age 65 and older are lining up for the COVID-19 vaccine, younger folks with certain medical conditions are anxiously waiting for March 1. That’s when Utah residents 18 years of age and over who are afflicted with things like chronic heart disease and uncontrolled diabetes become eligible to get the shots.

Those 70 and older, along with healthcare workers, first responders and elementary and high school teachers and the staff at schools have been eligible to receive the vaccine since Feb. 1. Officials report that requests from these groups for vaccination appointments have slowed, indicating that most of those who want the vaccine have received it.

When younger people with the listed conditions become eligible, officials expect demand to rise considerably. According to Aislynn Tolman-Hill, spokesperson at the Utah County Department of Health, vaccines will be administered to the newly eligible Utahns based on the honor system. Doctor’s notes or medical records will not be required.

A list of conditions accepted for eligibility for vaccination can be found on the websites of most county health departments.