COVID-19 vaccine distribution strategy driven by state guidelines

February 1, 2021

This post is no longer being updated (last update: Feb. 1, 2021). For the latest on COVID-19 vaccines, please visit our dedicated vaccine information page.

The state of Indiana continues to issue and update guidelines for COVID-19 vaccine eligibility and distribution throughout Indiana.

Who is currently eligible

Based on guidance from the Indiana Department of Health, the following groups of individuals across the state are currently eligible to schedule a vaccine appointment:

  • First responders (fire, law enforcement, emergency medical services, reservists and volunteers) who have in-person contact with the public.
  • Licensed and unlicensed health care workers who have in-person contact with patients or infectious material in any health care setting.
  • Individuals who are 65 years of age or older (as of Feb. 1).

Eligible individuals should visit https://ourshot.in.gov, searching for a nearby vaccine clinic and selecting an available appointment date and time. Appointments may also be made by calling 211. A caregiver or loved one may make an appointment on behalf of an eligible senior. 

Where to get updates on vaccine eligibility, administration

The timeline for additional phases of vaccine eligibility and administration is yet to be determined or communicated by the state of Indiana. Once these details are decided, they will be communicated to help people plan how they can get their vaccination. Updates will be available through the state’s Vaccine Information and Planning page and through traditional media channels (print, radio, TV), digital media (social media, internet), print resources, webinars and webcasts, and partnerships with trusted community resources, such as faith communities and community and civic organizations. 

Purdue also will communicate updates via the Protect Purdue website, the Protect Purdue Weekly Briefing (every Tuesday), and other relevant communication channels (Purdue Today; social media, etc.). 

The CDC provides the latest information about the COVID-19 vaccine.

Preparing for vaccine distribution on campus 

Purdue University, guided by a COVID-19 vaccine allocation task force described in more detail below, is actively preparing to become a vaccine distribution site and aid local vaccination efforts on campus as soon as  the Indiana State Department of Health gives its approval and makes a supply of vaccine available.  

Purdue’s COVID-19 vaccine allocation task force

Purdue’s COVID-19 vaccine allocation task force, assembled in and active since October, works in conjunction with the Protect Purdue Implementation Team and is charged to:

  • Determine and recommend Purdue’s response to the CDC’s and the state of Indiana’s phased and evolving approach to COVID-19 vaccination.
  • Gather and provide valuable information on available vaccines, including safety and efficacy.
  • Serve as a trusted body for the campus community, build confidence in vaccination and help dispel misinformation.

The task force includes:

  • Willie M. Reed, task force chair and dean of the College of Veterinary Medicine.
  • R. Ethan Braden, senior vice president of marketing and communications.
  • Jen Hodges, executive vice president of operations, One to One Health.
  • Harm HogenEsch, professor of immunopathology and associate dean for research, College of Veterinary Medicine.
  • Richard Kuhn, Krenicki Family Director of the Purdue Institute of Inflammation, Immunology and Infectious Disease.
  • Richard D. Mattes, Distinguished Professor of Nutrition Science, head of the Department of Public Health and director of the Ingestive Behavior Research Center.
  • Nicole Noel, director of Purdue University Pharmacy.
  • Candace Shaffer, senior director of benefits in Human Resources.
  • Lisa Smith, medical director, One to One Health.
  • Scott Stienecker, medical director for infection prevention and co-director for antimicrobial stewardship, Parkview Regional Medical Hospital and Affiliates.
  • Gail Walenga, director, Purdue University Student Health Center.

It is important that all members of the Purdue community continue to follow the elements of the Protect Purdue Pledge — always correctly wearing a face mask in public, maintaining appropriate social distance from others, and washing hands diligently. It is critically important that all students, faculty and staff monitor for and report any COVID-19-related symptoms to the Protect Purdue Health Center by calling 765-496-INFO (4636) or toll-free at 833-571-1043.

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