Update: All Philadelphia residents over the age of 16 are now eligible to be vaccinated.

Let’s start with the good news: if you live in Philadelphia and are over the age of 65, you are eligible to be vaccinated!

While Philadelphia does not have enough vaccine for everyone that wants it, every week we are receiving more doses from the federal government. As we get more doses, the City is working to open more clinics in more communities. The more clinics that are open, the more people that can be vaccinated. This means that we can start to consider ways to get vaccine to people who are at an increased risk. The City continues to work through the Philadelphia Phase 1b and vaccinate priority groups like teachers and childcare providers.

Epidemiological research has shown that the older a person is, they may be more likely to experience negative effects from exposure to COVID. Because of the limited number of doses available, the Health Department previously restricted access to only the oldest Philadelphians, those over 75. But those between the age of 65 and 74 have also been found to be at an increased risk of hospitalization and death.

All of the counties and states surrounding Philadelphia have made those over the age of 65 eligible to be vaccinated, which has caused some confusion and frustration.

Because of the increase in vaccine supply and in an effort to bring Philadelphia in line with our neighbors, the Health Department has changed the priority scheme for Philadelphia Phase 1b to include people that are age 65 and older.

The City’s Health Department has consulted with the combined COVID-19 Racial Equity Response Team and Vaccine Advisory Committee to ensure that this change meets with the City’s equity and distribution goals and found overwhelming support.

Those who are aged 65 or older are encouraged to register on the City’s Vaccine Interest form at phila.gov/vaccineinterest, or by dialing 3-1-1 so they can be notified and directed to set an appointment at a City-run or partner clinic. Virtually every provider, including the Center City Vaccination Center (the FEMA-run clinic at the Convention Center), requires an appointment and is open only to those who are Philadelphia residents and eligible in Philadelphia Phase 1b.