(WSYM) — The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services says they have been notified by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention that this week's winter storms have delayed COVID-19 vaccine shipments.
“We ask that Michiganders confirm their appointments prior to traveling and to have patience as providers seek to reschedule any appointments,” said Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, chief medical executive and chief deputy for health in a news release. “Unfortunately, distribution of the vaccine in this circumstance is simply out of our control. Vaccine providers across the state are working hard to get 70% of Michiganders age 16 and older vaccinated with the safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine as quickly as possible.”
Officials say winter storm conditions in Kentucky and Tennessee are to blame.
Pfizer vaccines were not shipped on Monday, February 15 because of the weather and a limited number of Pfizer vaccine shipments are being processed this week.
Severe weather also disrupted shipments from Moderna's distribution center in Memphis. The wide-ranging disruption impacted air and ground transportation, as well as the workforce that is packing and sorting vaccine. This halted shipments on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday. As of now, the CDC expects a significant backlog of orders for distribution at the facility. Officials say shipments from the distribution center will resume when the weather abates.
