By Sahar Chmais

HAYS COUNTY – Hays County is in its Tier 1A COVID-19 vaccination phase, according to the office of Hays County Judge Ruben Becerra.

This phase of vaccination is open to first responders, direct care hospital workers, long term care workers, EMS 9-1-1, home health providers, pharmacy workers and school nurses. There may have been a transition to start Tier 1B vaccination through some medical providers, the judge’s press release said. Tier 1B includes residents 65 and older, 16 and older who are pregnant or who have chronic medical conditions.

“The state has yet to release vaccines to Hays County Public Health,” Becerra said, “but we anticipate receiving a small shipment within the next couple of weeks. Once received we will notify the public.”

While the county does not directly receive these vaccines, the state has provided vaccines to multiple medical facilities in the county. Recipients include Seton Hays-Kyle, Austin Regional Clinic in Buda and Kyle, Baylor Scott & White in Buda, HEB in Buda, Dripping Springs, Wimberley, Kyle and San Marcos. Other recipients include San Marcos Family Medicine, Brookshire in Wimberley and Wimberley Pharmacy.

COVID-19 vaccines are free of charge, but residents may need to register or be seen by a doctor before receiving the vaccine. These steps can be taken by directly contacting the medical facility.