The Tennessee Department of Health will be making changes to its vaccination policies, which may open the door for all adults in Shelby County to get vaccinated sooner rather than expected.
Shelby County Mayor Lee Harris reported the news first on social media, tweeting “It is great news that the state will soon announce plans for all adults in @ShelbyCoTN to be vaccinated.
I urge everyone—meaning every adult in Shelby County—to get the shot, and make the case to neighbors and loved ones about the importance of taking the vaccine.”
Local leaders requested that the state allow them to vaccinate all Shelby County residents.
A spokesperson for Memphis Mayor Jim Strickland confirmed on Friday his office sent the request to the state, and “they are considering it.”
They didn’t say when the request was made or when they expect to hear back.
On Friday, however, the Tennessee Department of Health announced counties could move through the vaccination phases as long as they have enough vaccine.
Gov. Bill Lee confirmed that news and said that on Monday, the state will announce adults 55 and up are eligible.