COVID-19 Vaccine

Current Health Department Efforts

The vaccination campaign for COVID-19 has begun.  There are two approved vaccines available. Vaccine Inventory from the Federal Government to the State is coming on a weekly basis.  In an effort to utilize the vaccine that is available the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) has recommended the following phased in approach to vaccinating the public based on population priorities.

The State Disaster Medical Advisory Committee (SDMAC) will use this framework to determine State wide priorities for vaccination.  Information from the SDMAC can be found here.  

What phase are we in right now?

We are currently in Phase 1A which means we are vaccinating health care personnel and those that live and work in long term care facilities.  There are an estimated 400,000 individuals statewide that are eligible to receive vaccine in Phase 1A. 

In addition to Phase 1A, the State has indicated that starting Jan. 18, 2021, law enforcement and fire personnel may also be vaccinated.

If you are an individual that is a healthcare worker or an organization that employs healthcare workers you can register at https://www.healthymke.com/register to be matched to a vaccine provider.

You can also contact the South Milwaukee/St. Francis Health Department for more information at 414-768-8055.

What is the timeline for moving through the phases?

The State of Wisconsin Department of Health Services has indicated that the State will move through the phases together, which means that once Phase 1A is complete we will move to Phase 1B as defined by the SDMAC.

Although vaccine is slowly becoming available, we all still need to take the necessary precautions to prevent getting or spreading COVID-19. Please stay home when you’re sick, continue to wear masks, limit indoor gatherings, practice physical distancing, and wash your hands often. The combination of a vaccine and prevention measures will help us as we slowly return to “normal.” 

Where can I go for the most up to date information about vaccines and vaccination data?

Milwaukee County’s Unified Emergency Operations Center (UEOC) vaccination website https://www.healthymke.com/.

Wisconsin Department of Health Services COVID-19:   Vaccine

CDC COVID-19 Vaccines

Milwaukee County COVID-19 Dashboard

Wisconsin Department of Health Services COVID-19: Vaccine Data

FAQs

Can I call the Health Department and request to be added to a list to receive the vaccine?

The Health Department does not keep a list of individuals needing to be vaccinated.  We will continue to update this webpage as more information becomes available. 

 Is there any chance I can get COVID-19 from the vaccine?

The vaccines do not contain any part of the SARS-CoV-2 virus and cannot give anyone COVID-19. 

Am I able to receive the vaccine in another state while traveling?

Yes, as long as you are there long enough to receive the second dose. 

We thank you for your patience during this time of navigating vaccine distribution.