Gov. Kim Reynolds provided an update this (Wednesday) morning on Iowa’s vaccination program and efforts to aid in the state’s economic recovery. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 952,000 total doses have been administered in the state as of Tuesday with 298,000 Iowans now fully inoculated. Reynolds says a huge percentage of people in at-risk categories or occupations have received at least one dose of the vaccine.
Yesterday (Tuesday), the Iowa 211 call center began assisting older Iowans lacking access to the internet with scheduling appointments, and Reynolds says more than 1,100 appointments were made for individuals over the age of 65 in the first 24 hours of the new system’s operation. Last week, the Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) announced the state was moving into Phase 1C vaccinations, which includes people younger than 65 and all other previously eligible individuals. Reynolds says some counties are still working to complete 1B inoculations, but many others are ready to expand access.
She adds demand continues to outpace supply, but the total allotment to the state grows from week to week. As Iowa inches closer to herd immunity, Reynolds is putting more focus on post-pandemic economic recovery and making it easier for people to return to the workforce. Women have been disproportionately left the labor market as many have chosen to remain home with their children due to insufficient space in childcare facilities. Reynolds announced the creation of the Governor’s Child Care Task Force led by Sukup Manufacturing Chief Administrative Officer, Emily Schmitt.
The task force will spend the next 100 days compiling data and researching possible solutions to the child care shortage and report back to the governor with their findings. For the latest coronavirus activity numbers or information about vaccine availability, follow the links included below.
______
