Tallahassee, Fla. –  Per reports, the United States Center for Disease Control (CDC) will announce new vaccine deployment recommendations that mirror Florida’s unique strategy. Florida’s fifth week of vaccine distribution is currently underway, and the state has continued to prioritize vaccine access to seniors age 65 and older – a strategy that initially went above and beyond recommended guidelines issued by the federal government.

Florida has vaccinated nearly 350,000 seniors – more than any other state in the nation that’s reporting updates on this critical effort.

Our state is home to more than 4.5 million seniors, and both nationwide and in Florida, seniors 65 and older have more severe risks, accounting for more than 80% of all COVID related deaths. The Governor has made it clear this population is his top priority.

Innovative pilot programs, such as the ones we’ve launched with Publix as well as with our places of worship, will ensure the vaccine is as accessible as possible and incentivize swift deployment by our partners on the ground. The state has also worked across sectors to develop innovative and unique sites to increase vaccine access statewide. Such locations include:

• Places of Worship
• State-Run Testing Sites
• Partnership with Publix
• Supplementing LTC Facility Federal Efforts
• Senior Living Communities

As vaccine distribution expands to wider populations, Florida will continue this stride and develop multi-faceted resources to ensure Floridians have access to the COVID-19 vaccine. For more information on vaccines and access, please visit the Florida Department of Health.

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