BALTIMORE, MD (Tuesday, February 2, 2021) — Today, Mayor Brandon M. Scott issued the following statement on challenges with coordination at the State level, impacting Baltimore’s COVID-19 vaccination strategy:

As Baltimore continues to plan and implement our citywide vaccination efforts, we remain committed to a coherent, collaborative, and equitable approach to the vaccination process. We know that this pandemic has disproportionately affected our Black and Brown communities throughout our City. We also know that equitably distributing the vaccine is a key step in bringing the pandemic to an end.

However, the State’s response and vaccination efforts have been uncoordinated to say the least, leading to frustration amongst residents who are eligible to be vaccinated but cannot get an appointment and an unpredictable supply of vaccines that makes planning and prioritization efforts difficult. Stronger partnership with the State is needed to ensure the equitable vaccination of Baltimore City residents. 

Based on challenges we have observed and heard directly from residents about, I am calling on Governor Hogan and the Maryland Department of Health to commit to reserving daily vaccination slots for: (1) the more than 15,000 older adults who have expressed interest in making an appointment, (2) teachers at City schools, (3) judges and staff from our courts, and (4) eligible Baltimore residents in Phase 1A, 1B, and 1C who have struggled to get their first dose appointment. Improved coordination would allow us to ensure our limited supply of vaccine can get to those who need it most.

I also asked the Governor for visibility on the percentage of City residents that have accessed the regional mass vaccination state sites in Baltimore City, to ensure equitable administration of vaccination and plan more effective outreach and education efforts for Baltimore City residents.

My administration stands ready to swiftly vaccinate Baltimore City residents as rapidly as our supply allows us. Baltimore currently has the lowest case rates in the state, and my administration will continue to work hard to ensure the safety and wellbeing of our residents through a framework of equity.