This week, local health officials briefed County Commissioners on the topic.  Right now, the state is telling local health departments to expect distribution of vaccines as early as January.

The first round of vaccines will be stored at Franciscan Health in Michigan City and will go to area medical personnel and high risk patients.  When the health department receives a second round of vaccines, they will be made available to first responders and anyone with high social contact, such as food service workers.

The general public would then have access to the vaccine.  Buildings at the LaPorte County fairgrounds are planned to be used as distribution centers.  The county’s final vaccine distribution plan must be submitted to the state by December 5.