Governor Polis Warns Coloradans Vaccine Does Not Give Immediate Immunity

Governor Jared Polis wants Coloradans to understand that the vaccine does not give people immediate immunity.

In another virtual COVID-19 update, Governor Polis discussed the state's response to the pandemic as counties await the first shipments of the vaccine.

"What's important to know when you are fortunate enough to get the vaccine, you don't have immunity a day later. Even a week later," said Polis.

The Pfizer vaccine is expected to receive FDA approval in the next coming days. If all goes as planned, the vaccine could start being given as early as Monday, December 14.

At-risk healthcare employees and people who live and work in long-term care facilities will be the first to receive the vaccine once it's approved.

"We, of course, want doses for everybody in Colorado, expect that," Polis continued. "But the first that we are getting will have 46,800 of the Pfizer doses. And then we believe the first Moderna shipment hopefully within a week or two after that, will have 95,600 doses."

Polis also took the time to encourage residents not to travel for the holidays.

Yesterday (December 10), the governor's office released a video of Colorado health officials completing a dry run of the vaccine delivery.

16 facilities in Colorado will distribute the Pfizer vaccine.

Photo: Getty Images