October 19, 2020
On Friday the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services submitted a COVID-19 vaccine distribution plan to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. North Carolina plans to immunize everyone who is eligible for and wants a COVID-19 vaccine once it becomes available, while prioritizing critical populations such as healthcare providers, people at high risk for clinical severity and high risk of exposure, and historically marginalized populations.
The North Carolina Institute of Medicine convened a COVID-19 Vaccine Advisory Committee to consult on the state’s plan, with representation from a broad range of local and state leaders with independent and diverse perspectives. North Carolina’s vaccine plan reflects five principles that guide the planning for and distribution of one or more COVID-19 vaccines in the state, including:
1. All North Carolinians have equitable access to vaccines.
2. Vaccine planning and distribution is inclusive; actively engages state and local government, public and private partners; and draws upon the experience and expertise of leaders from historically marginalized populations.
3. Transparent, accurate and frequent public communications is essential to building trust.
4. Data is used to promote equity, track progress and guide decision-making.
5. Appropriate stewardship of resources and continuous evaluation and improvement drive successful implementation.
North Carolina’s interim vaccination plan will continue to be revised based on further information and guidance from the CDC and other federal agencies, increasing data on safety and efficacy from vaccine trials, ongoing input from partners, and refinements needed as the state progresses through the planning and operational stages.