Beginning Monday, February 8th, South Carolina residents aged 65 and over can begin signing up to receive their COVID-19 vaccine.
According to the Department of Health and Environmental Control, 82% of the individuals in South Carolina who have died from COVID-19 have been 65 years of age and older.
Governor Henry McMaster recently announced the rollout of the new age group saying, “We have a moral and ethical duty to first vaccinate the South Carolinians who are at highest risk of dying from the virus.”
Following the vaccination of those aged 65 and over, teachers will be next in line to get their vaccine.
McMaster also addressed the decision to prioritize senior citizens saying, “At this time, placing a younger person between a senior citizen and what could be their life saving shot would be unconscionable and irresponsible.”
Officials hope the expansion of those who are eligible to receive the vaccine will help slow the spread of the disease and protect those who are most vulnerable.
Click here for more information on how you can sign-up to receive a COVID-19 vaccine.