Issue #17: Prioritize Adult Vaccination During COVID-19

Seniors are the most vulnerable population to COVID-19 infection and death. As a result, they have been tragically and disproportionately affected by the virus. The loss of life due to COVID-19 has been shameful.

It is critically important for seniors to stay as healthy as possible in order to improve their chances of not succumbing to COVID-19. To that end, they must be prioritized to get all the other recommended vaccines in order to avoid pre-existing weakened states resulting from influenza, shingles, or pneumonia.

Recommendation #57: Seniors Covered and Prioritized for COVID-19 Vaccine

• Fully cover the cost of a COVID-19 vaccine for all seniors. Prioritize seniors, as the most high-risk group, for the COVID-19 vaccine.

Recommendation #58: Designate Immunocompromised Status to Seniors 60+

• During the COVID-19 pandemic, include all people 60 and older as “designated immunocompromised” due to their high-risk status for infection. Being designated as immunocompromised will provide seniors with immediately increased coverage for certain vaccines such as the most effective pneumonia vaccines.

Recommendation #59: Prioritize Caregivers

• During the COVID-19 pandemic, designate all paid or unpaid caregivers of older adults in the high-risk category and prioritize their adult vaccinations including a COVID-19 vaccine. Start with paid and unpaid caregivers of older adults living in congregate or long-term care.