MADISON, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — A less-than-expected number of COVID-19 vaccine doses has Wisconsin calling on the federal government for more.
According to Gov. Tony Evers’ office, federal officials indicated Thursday that the state will be receiving 35,100 doses of Pfizer’s vaccine, which is about 14,600 fewer doses than distributed this week.
“This is unacceptable. Wisconsin citizens deserve the vaccine the federal government promised,” Gov. Evers said in a news release. “Our healthcare workers and long-term care residents need this vaccine that is ready and available. We call on the federal government to send us more vaccine without delay.”
In addition to asking for more doses, Wisconsin officials are also calling on the government to provide “clarity” on vaccine allocations.
Medical facilities across the state have received and begun administering the vaccine this week. Initial doses were given to UW Health workers in Madison on Monday, HSHS and Prevea workers on Wednesday and Aurora, Agnesian and Ascension Wisconsin workers on Thursday.
Wisconsin health officials believe the state could receive doses of Moderna’s vaccine as early as next week. A government panel endorsed the vaccine Thursday, clearing the way for expected approval.
While deaths from the virus remain high, the state continues to see a decline in new cases. Just over 3,300 new cases were reported Friday, bringing the positivity rate down to 31.8%.
