Atlantic, IA — Cass County Public Health is beginning to receive a limited supply of Moderna COVID-19 vaccine for Tier 1 of Phase 1B, which includes people who are 65 and older, first responders, PK-12 school personnel and childcare workers.

“We received 100 doses today, and very surprisingly, we received notice that we may be expecting 300 more doses next week. While that’s a very welcome surprise, and we’re prepared to use them quickly, it certainly doesn’t meet the full demand. Many Cass County residents are age 65 and older, and we have a list of more than 2,000 people who are signed up and want to receive the vaccine,” said Cass County Public Health Director Beth Olsen.

It is anticipated vaccine allocations will be limited and continue to come in small batches through the next several months. “We ask for everyone to be patient as we move through this process together. Please know if you have signed up already there is nothing more you need to do, and we will call and set up an appointment when we have a vaccine available.”

The initial 400 doses will be given to people eligible in either Phase 1A or Tier 1 of Phase 1B, all in accordance with guidelines set forth by the Iowa Department of Public Health. Cass County Public Health anticipates that weekly allocations will become more regular in the coming months, and encourages all residents to stay tuned to updates through local news sources and on Cass County Health System’s website and social media pages.

Until vaccine is widely available to all, it is crucial that Iowans continue to practice the mitigation measures that can slow the spread of the COVID-19 virus.

• Wearing a mask or face covering
• Practice social distancing with those outside your household
• Clean your hands frequently with soap and water
• Stay home if you feel sick

For information and updates related to COVID-19, visit https://idph.iowa.gov/Emerging-Health-Issues/Novel-Coronavirus/Vaccine and follow IDPH on Facebook (@IowaDepartmentofPublicHealth) and Twitter (@IAPublicHealth).