As new COVID-19 numbers begin to slow down, vaccination has become a priority, to achieve herd immunity as quickly as possible. 

According to the Arizona Department of Health Services, the state is using a phased vaccine prioritization tactic because of the current limited initial supply of vaccine.

The first people that received their vaccinations were part of  Phase 1A.  Healthcare workers and people in health related occupations, emergency medical services workers, long-term care workers and residents were all part of the initial group.

According to the statewide map on the AZDHS website, most counties in Arizona indicate they are still in priority phase 1B.

Priority Phase 1B includes education and childcare workers, protective services occupations and adults 65 and older.

Phase 1B’s criteria is essential services/critical industry workers and adults with high-risk conditions in congregate, or group settings.

Phase 1C, according to the website, will include adults of all ages with high-risk medical conditions and adults living in congregate settings.

Phase 2 includes high-risk/critical populations within the general public.

Lastly, Phase 3 gives access to the public at large.

Individuals seeking to make an appointment to be vaccinated should check to see if they qualify for the current vaccination phase and be aware that proper identification is required to finalize the appointment process.