On Feb. 19 Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts announced a change to phase 1B of the vaccination timeline, removing underlying health conditions from a priority position on the list.
Immune-compromised Nebraskans are confused, citing that it goes against the CDC’s recommendations.
Andrea Thyfault has been dealing with complications as a result of Crohn’s disease which has left her highly susceptible to the virus.
“I believe we should receive the vaccine early because it affects our health and our quality of life,” said Thyfault.
While concerns are raised, medical professionals see both sides of this decision.
“I can see it from a number of different viewpoints,” said UNMC’s Department of Internal Medicine Chief Dr. Mark Rupp. “The greatest risk factor for poor outcomes is age. There’s also data to suggest that people with obesity, diabetes and various other cardio-respiratory diseases have a worse outcome than other folks who are matched by age.”
Dr. Rupp said he hopes that in a few more weeks this population group who are “very deserving and have pre-existing conditions” can be vaccinated.
In the meantime, if you are suffering from an immune-compromising condition you can apply to be added to the vaccine list at Vaccinate.NE.gov to ensure proper prioritization.
