Beginning Monday, Iowa vaccine providers can officially start vaccinating additional priority populations.

People 64 years of age and younger with medical conditions that are or may be an increased risk of severe illness from COVID-19 will be eligible. Those conditions, according to the Centers for Disease Control are:

• Cancer

• Chronic kidney disease

• COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease)

• Down Syndrome

• Heart conditions, such as heart failure, coronary artery disease, or cardiomyopathies

• Immunocompromised state from solid organ transplant

• Obesity or overweight

• Pregnancy

• Sickle cell disease

• Smoking

• Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes

• Asthma

• Cerebrovascular disease

• Cystic fibrosis

• Hypertension or high blood pressure

• Immunocompromised state from blood or bone marrow transplant, immune deficiencies, HIV, use of corticosteroids, or use of other immune weakening medicines

• Neurologic conditions, such as dementia

• Liver disease

• Pulmonary fibrosis

• Thalassemia

The Iowa Department of Public Health decision comes as several Iowa counties have reported they are nearing completion for vaccinating previous priority population groups. Some counties and vaccine providers will remain focused on previous priority populations until they are closer to completion.

Because vaccine production has not fully met the demand for vaccine, Iowans will need to remain patient as vaccine production increases. The White House announced by the end of May, there will be enough vaccines for anyone older than 16 who chooses to receive one.

Starting March 9, the Iowa 211 Call Center will be able to assist Iowans age 65 and older who need assistance scheduling an appointment and don’t have access to the technology to do so.

It’s critical to continue practicing the mitigation measures that can slow the spread of the COVID-19 virus. Vaccinated Iowans should continue these precautions as we are still learning whether getting a vaccine will prevent you from spreading the virus that causes COVID-19 to other people, even if you don’t get sick yourself.

• Wear a mask or face covering

• Practice social distancing with those outside your household

• Clean your hands frequently with soap and water

• Stay home if you feel sick

• Get tested if you are exposed to, or have symptoms of COVID-19

•Get a COVID-19 vaccine when you are eligible