(Des Moines, IA) -- Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds says more than 8,400 COVID-19 vaccinations have been given to Iowans so far. Front-line health care workers have had first priority, residents of long term care facilities and assisted living centers are expected to start getting the vaccine next week.
Iowa Department of Human Services Director Kelly Garcia says a state panel continues to meet to talk about the CDC's priority list for who should receive the vaccine. Garcia says it's likely once long term care and assisted living residents get it, shots will be available for those 75-and older, and then Iowans in their mid-sixties, as well as younger residents who have a pre-existing health issue. Garcia says the Iowa panel is also developing possible sub-groups, including low income workers and homeless persons.
Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds says it appears the federal government will also recommend first responders, teachers, and those working in food manufacturing should have priority.
The state's COVID-19 numbers have been declining. She says the 14-day positivity rate is 12.6 percent. She says over last 7 days, the statewide positivity rate was 9.5 percent. Reynolds says currently just eleven counties have positivity rates at or above 15-percent, the rest are below that level.
COVID hospitalizations are also trending down, and 81-percent of all Iowans who have had the virus, have recovered. State health officials also say there are signs of improvement in long term care facilities.
Reynolds says the COVID relief package passed by Congress provides direct relief to Americans, and it also extends the deadline for states to use remaining funds from the federal CARES Act by one year. She says Iowa has about $47 million of remaining funds to be used in programs for Iowans.
The Governor says all 99-counties are getting an allocation of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine. She says unlike the Pfizer vaccine, it does not require storage in extreme cold temperatures, so it is ideal for shipping to rural areas, including locations in Iowa.
Reynolds reminded Iowans to continue taking precautions, noting just because the vaccine is starting to roll out, and Iowa's numbers are declining, it does not mean residents can relax, as the virus is still active. She reminds Iowans to continue to social distance and avoid large gatherings.
Governor Reynolds wrapped up her news conference with a Christmas message:
"So as you gather with loved ones in the coming days, please celebrate responsibly, be mindful of the people you are with and do your part so everyone has a happy and healthy holiday. Like so many of you, I'm eager to turn the calendar ahead and move beyond the challenges that we've endured this past year. 2021 brings with it a renewed sense of hope and optimism, despite the uncertainty of the past year, one thing has always remained constant, the willingness of Iowans to come together and work toward a common goal. I want to thank every Iowan for being a part of our COVID-19 response and ask you to continue to be a part of our recovery. As we enter a new year let's focus on moving forward together, strengthening our communities, growing our economy and creating opportunities for all Iowans. I wish you and your family a happy, healthy, and hope-filled new year. God Bless you and God bless the great state of Iowa."