Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson on Monday announced that the state will open up COVID-19 vaccination to all members of the 1-B priority group. The change is effective immediately.
The governor specifically mentioned essential workers in food and agriculture, grocery stores, meal delivery, corrections, postal service, public transit, government workers, houses of worship, along with those with developmental disabilities as groups now eligible for the vaccine.
Hutchinson said the decision was made after some vaccination clinics in the state over the weekend did not fill all of their appointments.
Hutchinson also announced a new statewide hotline to assist individuals seeking an opportunity for a vaccine. The hotline, he said will be staffed and available beginning Monday (March 8), and will be open from 8 a.m. until 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. That number is 1-800-985-6030.
Hutchinson estimated that his announcement today would add about 180,000 Arkansans to those currently eligible for the shot. He estimated the state will make enough progress with this group to be able to move onto 1-C in early April.
Here’s a link a bit more info on who is currently included in the 1-B priority group.
Local pharmacies, including Collier Drug, Medical Arts Pharmacy, and Heartland Pharmacy in Fayetteville will vaccinate those in the 65 and older group, and some education workers.
Vaccination clinics are also taking place around the region, including at Washington Regional, Northwest Health, and Mercy in Springdale.
Others will be vaccinated through mass clinics organized by their employers.
Here are links/info for the waiting lists for pharmacies in Washington County for the 1-A and 1-B group:
» Collier Drug Stores – Visit this website
» Medical Arts Pharmacy – Visit this website
» Community Pharmacy – Visit this website
» Heartland Pharmacy – Visit this website
» Walmart / Sam’s Club Pharmacy
A list of other pharmacies around the state vaccinating right now is available here.
