Arizona hopes to send doses of Moderna vaccine to rural counties

While hundreds of healthcare workers were getting vaccinated on Dec. 17, some were able to get their vaccine the day before, including Arizona Department of Health Services' Director, Cara Christ.

She says she's feeling great, and only feeling a bit of soreness in the injection spot, which is normal.

As for distribution, Christ says they're keeping the first doses of the Pfizer vaccine in Maricopa and Pima counties since they have specific storage requirements, but once the Moderna vaccine is approved, they are hoping to distribute those doses to Arizona's rural communities.

"The Moderna vaccine can be ordered in smaller doses and only requires regular freezers, so we're going to be working with our rural counties to get that out with rollout of that next week," explained Christ.

Arizona is hoping to receive 110,000 doses of the Moderna vaccine once it's approved.

Online: AZDHS' COVID-19 vaccination plan

Coronavirus in Arizona: Latest case numbers

MAP: Arizona Coronavirus cases by zip code

_____

In order to protect yourself from a possible infection, the CDC recommends: 

  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
  • Stay home when you are sick.
  • Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
  • Cover your mouth and nose with a cloth face cover when around others
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
  • Monitor your health daily

Get the latest coronavirus news by downloading the FOX 10 News App. Our promise is that our alerts are there to inform you - not scare you.

_____

Continuing Coverage:

Featured

COVID-19 vaccine distribution begins in Maricopa County

Maricopa County is set to distribute vaccines in the Valley starting Dec.17. Officials expect to administer 123,000 shots in their first rollout of the vaccine.

Featured

Valley doctors say there's a long COVID-19 battle ahead, not to fear the vaccine

The COVID-19 vaccine isn't to be feared, two Arizona doctors say, explaining that they'll be the first to receive the vaccine and hope to treat patients in thee future who aren't as sick as some are now.

Featured

Gov. Ducey touts COVID-19 vaccine as open hospital beds hit record low

Ducey was joined by AZDHS Director Dr. Cara Christ for a tour of the drive-thru vaccination site that is being operated by Banner Health officials.