State Enters Phase 4 for COVID-19 Vaccine; All Oklahomans Age 16+ Eligible Beginning Monday

The Oklahoma State Department of Health (OSDH) announced this week that beginning Monday, March 29 all Oklahomans over the age of 16 will be eligible to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.

“This is a momentous day for the state of Oklahoma,” said Dr. Lance Frye, Commissioner of Health. “I want to thank all of our public health staff, partners and volunteers who have served on the front lines and kept vaccines moving safely and efficiently. Navigating the COVID-19 pandemic has been a huge undertaking and a massive public health challenge. Lives have been saved as a result of the drive and determination of frontline medical workers, county health departments and our partners across the state.”

According to reporting by OSDH, Oklahoma is one of the first states to enter phase 4 of the vaccine roll-out by opening vaccine appointment scheduling to the general public.

“Opening phase 4 is certainly a milestone, but we haven’t won the fight yet,” said Keith Reed, Deputy Commissioner of Health. “We’ve met some ambitious goals leading the state’s largest vaccination effort in a very short period of time. However, we can’t let our guard down just yet. Now that everyone is eligible, don’t wait to get your vaccine. The best thing you can do to protect yourself and others is to get it as soon as you’re able.”

There is no cost to receive the vaccine. The Pfizer vaccine is the only one recommended for 16-and 17-year-olds.

Oklahomans age 16 and older may register via the state’s Vaccine Scheduler Portal at vaccinate.ok.gov, after which they can view available appointments.

Vaccine appointments are also available through other providers such as pharmacies and can be found on the federal vaccine locator at vaccinefiner.org.