The COVID-19 vaccine is now available to Oklahomans registered in Phase 3 of the state’s vaccine distribution plan, which means the vast majority of the state’s population is eligible to receive it.

Phase 3 includes essential workers, child-care workers and students and employees at colleges, universities and vocational schools.

The state’s list of essential industries is very broad and includes manufacturing, construction, communications, energy, finance, state and federal government, transportation and retail.

The latest expansion comes on the heels of opening vaccine appointments to all Oklahomans in Phase 2 last week.

“Thanks to increasing vaccine supply and the fluidity of our state distribution plan, we’re excited to open vaccine appointments to our next major priority groups. This also means different counties may be in different stages in the roll out based on their population and needs,” Keith Reed, Deputy Commissioner of Health said via a press release. “We worked quickly through our teachers and beat by over a week our goal to have every teacher have the opportunity to be vaccinated by spring break. That is giving us an opportunity to open to additional groups quicker than anticipated.”

“Phases 1, 2 and 3 cover nearly 3.5 million Oklahomans, so odds are, you are currently eligible for the vaccine. Please register in the Vaccine Scheduler Portal or talk to your medical provider to check your eligibility,” Reed added. “If you’re currently eligible, we are encouraging you to sign up for the first available and convenient appointment for you. Getting a vaccine will not only protect you and others, but it will also help us slow the rate of communal transmission and bring us one step closer to being together again.”

Oklahomans among the new priority groups are encouraged to register through the state’s Vaccine Scheduler Portal if they haven’t done so already.

After registration, they will see available appointments on the portal starting March 9. Health officials reminded that vaccine appointments are also available through many other local pandemic providers across the state.

“Now that we’ve taken steps to protect our most at-risk populations, it’s time for Oklahomans to be proactive and get their COVID-19 vaccines,” said Health Commissioner Dr. Lance Frye. “Phase 3 includes groups of people that are considerably younger than those outlined in the previous priority groups. Supply is no longer a major limitation in our efforts to administer the vaccine. I encourage all Oklahomans, no matter how old or how healthy you are to schedule a vaccine appointment as soon as it’s available to you. It’s the best thing you can do to protect yourself and those around you.”

The vaccine is available at no cost to all eligible groups in phase 1, 2 and 3. To schedule an appointment to receive the COVID-19 vaccine or to register to receive a notification when you will be eligible, please use the Vaccine Scheduler Portal located at www.vaccinate.oklahoma.gov/.