Submitted Photo Lt. Col. Jamie Hart, 5th Security Forces commander, receives his first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine on Thursday at Minot Air Force Base, shown in this photo by Air Force Airman 1st Class Zachary Wright. The first members of Team Minot to receive the vaccine were first responders and mission essential personnel.

By 2ND LT. RYAN WALSH

Minot Air Force Base

Public Affairs

MINOT AIR FORCE BASE – The 5th Medical Group at Minot Air Force Base began rolling out doses of the COVID-19 vaccine last week, with intentions to distribute the vaccine on a volunteer basis.

Local prioritization follows the Centers for Disease Control and Department of Defense guidance. First priorities will be given to those health care personnel, emergency services and public safety personnel (Fire Department and Security Forces). The next priorities are maintaining essential national security and installation functions, those being deployed and individuals at the highest risk of developing a severe illness from COVID-19 during the initial distribution phase.

“We strongly encourage all members and families to consider taking the vaccine. This will protect the individual, community and country. The vaccine is safe and effective based on all research conducted so far,” said Col. Lisa Bader, 5th Medical Group commander.

In order to continue the mitigation of potential COVID spread, the use of cloth face coverings, physical distancing and restriction of movement will continue.

For more information on the availability of the vaccine for military members and their families, personnel should contact their chain of command for the most updated information.