March 3, 2021

Meat plant workers eligible for COVID-19 vaccine in Arkansas, United States

Asa Hutchinson, Governor of Arkansas, United States, said workers based in poultry plants and other food manufacturing facilities in the state are now eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine, the Associated Press reported.

He said meat plant workers and other food processing facilities saw increased COVID-19 cases earlier in the pandemic, especially as they work in close proximity.

Hutchinson said these workers are essential workers, but they are also exposed workers because of their working conditions.

The vaccine was already made available to those 65 years old and above, teachers, healthcare workers, law enforcement, plus nursing home employees and residents. 24,000 doses of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine will be shipped to the state this week.

The announcement comes as Arkansas reported its first COVID-19 case with the United Kingdom variant of the virus.

- Associated Press