Dear Neighbors,
Yesterday, Governor Walz and the Minnesota Department of Health released their first round of plans regarding coronavirus vaccinations in Minnesota. I want to share this information to best keep you informed.
To be clear, no one will be mandated by the government to receive the vaccine. The decision to be vaccinated against the coronavirus will be yours. I oppose mandatory vaccines and am thankful the choice is up to individuals.
According to the Governor, Minnesota is expected to receive 183,400 doses of COVID-19 vaccine this month. These first doses of vaccine will be targeted toward health care workers and the state’s most vulnerable residents including nursing home residents. By focusing on these groups first, the state is hoping to maximize immediate health benefits, reduce death, and minimize the harm caused by COVID-19 by starting with the most vulnerable and those who care for them.
The first round of vaccines will come from two American manufacturers, Pfizer and Moderna. Both companies are seeking emergency use authorization for their products from the federal Food and Drug Administration. The agency is expected to decide on Pfizer’s vaccine on Thursday and Moderna’s on Dec. 17.
It is remarkable how quickly a vaccine was developed. This process has been a testament to American ingenuity and a strong commitment from President Trump and Operation Warp Speed to make this a reality.
Please be sure to reach out to me if you have any questions. I will do my best to keep you updated as this process continues. I can be reached by phone at 651-296-4229 and rep.glenn.gruenhagen@house.mn.
Have a great day,
Glenn
8.5.5