STATEHOUSE (Jan. 15, 2021) – Indiana residents age 70 and older are now eligible to register for a free COVID-19 vaccine, according to Hamilton County lawmakers.
"It is remarkable that less than a year into this pandemic, we already have two highly effective vaccine options to distribute to Hoosiers," said House Speaker Todd Huston (R-Fishers). "We must prioritize our older adults in these early rounds because we know they have the greatest health risk."
State Rep. Tony Cook (R-Cicero) said older Hoosiers can register for the vaccine by visiting ourshot.in.gov and finding a nearby vaccine clinic and selecting an appointment time. Those who do not have access to a computer can call 211 to register from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily, including weekends. Caregivers or loved ones may make an appointment for an eligible senior.
"Thousands of Hoosiers have already signed up to receive their vaccine through a variety of different channels," Cook said. "Whether it's using 211 or getting help from a family member to sign up online, it is vital that more people continue to register to get this vaccine."
This vaccine is administered in two doses, 21-28 days apart, and is available at no cost. State Rep. Chuck Goodrich (R-Noblesville) said at the first appointment, Hoosiers will be required to schedule a time for their second dose. Individuals must bring their photo ID to the appointment.
"I'm glad to see the state prioritizing Hoosiers whose health is most at risk, especially those in long-term care through deploying mobile vaccine teams that can go to them," Goodrich said. "This vaccine is our key to beating this virus and getting back to some sense of normalcy."
According to State Rep. Chris Jeter (R-Fishers), individuals may encounter wait times when registering due to a high volume of interest. The Indiana Department of Health encourages those eligible to be patient or to check back later in the day.
"Having so many people sign up for this vaccine is a good problem to have because we know this is the light at the end of the tunnel," Jeter said. "We know Hoosiers are anxiously waiting their turn, and your patience during this time is appreciated."
State Rep. Donna Schaibley (R-Carmel) said there will be a minimum of one vaccine clinic located in each county.
"By having at least one vaccine clinic in each county, we can ensure Hoosiers have access," Schaibley said. "We have to make sure everyone who wants to be vaccinated has an opportunity to be once their age group is eligible."
State Rep. Jerry Torr (R-Carmel) said Hoosier first responders and health care workers are also now eligible to register for a COVID-19 vaccine at no cost. Eligible professionals should receive an invitation and registration link from their employer, professional association or the state.
"It is critical we prioritize our Hoosiers who are on the front lines of this pandemic along with those who could face life-threatening side effects from this virus," Torr said. "We know we are almost on the other side of this, but we cannot let our guard down now. I encourage Hoosiers who want the vaccine to register for it when it is their turn to do so, as well as continuing to take other common sense precautions.”
Visit ourshot.in.gov for more information on eligibility requirements and registration.
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State Rep. Tony Cook (R-Cicero) represents House District 32,
which includes all of Tipton County and portions of Hamilton,
Madison, Delaware, Howard and Grant counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Chuck Goodrich (R-Noblesville) represents House District 29,
which includes portions of Hamilton County.
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State Rep. Chris Jeter (R-Fishers) represents House District 88,
which includes portions of Marion, Hamilton and Hancock counties.
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House Speaker Todd Huston (R-Fishers) represents House District 37,
which includes portions of Hamilton County.
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State Rep. Donna Schaibley (R-Carmel) represents House District 24,
which includes portions of Boone and Hamilton counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Jerry Torr (R-Carmel) represents House District 39,
which includes portions of Hamilton County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
