Rhode Island Seniors 65+ Up Can Now Register for COVID-19 Vaccination
Some great news was announced last week: Rhode Islanders who are 75 years and up can now register to get the COVID-19 vaccine. As of this past Monday, those 65 years and up can also register.
The Department of Health reminds us that vaccines are voluntary, “safe, effective, and very important tools in the fight against COVID-19.”
Ready for your vaccination? Here are the key things you need to know.
- You must make an appointment – no walk-ins are allowed. This is the case for both your first and second dose.
- Vaccinations are free. There is no cost or co-pay.
- You must meet the age requirement AND be a Rhode Island resident, or work or go to school in Rhode Island to be eligible at this time
- There are three types of vaccination sites: state-run sites, regional or community-run clinics, and retail pharmacies (CVS and Walgreens). Each site has its own instructions and protocols.
Where can I get vaccinated?
VaccinateRI.org offers a directory of state-run vaccination site locations, hours and instructions. The listings also state which vaccine is being administered at that site.
Below, you’ll find a list of Rhode Island cities and towns and who is coordinating the vaccine clinic locally. To schedule a vaccine appointment or to register your intent to be vaccinated when you’re eligible, call or visit the corresponding organization. (Click to see a larger version)
I’m younger than 65 – when will I be eligible?
Younger than 65? Go to portal.ri.gov or call the automated phone line at 844-930-1779 to be added to the Vaccine Interest Notification List. You’ll get updates as eligibility opens up to new groups.
After the age groups 75+ and 65+, the next groups that will be eligible for vaccination are:
- people aged 60-64 (expected to begin mid-March 2021)
- people aged 16-64 with underlying health conditions (expected to begin mid-March 2021)
- people aged 50-59 (expected to begin early- to mid-April 2021)
Where can I learn more about the COVID vaccine?
The Rhode Island Department of Health has an excellent Frequently Asked Questions website at covid.ri.gov/vaccination/covid-19-vaccine-faqs. Here you will find reliable, authoritative answers to dozens of questions related to COVID vaccinations. The page also addresses many of the myths and misinformation about the vaccine.