Parents of children with special needs can get top priority for vaccination

Parents and caregivers of children with certain disabilities can receive top priority for vaccinations against Covid-19, according to the California Department of Developmental Services.

According to an announcement issued in mid-January, parents and caregivers are in the top tier — 1A, under the California vaccination plan — if they care for children with cerebral palsy, epilepsy, Down Syndrome and other health conditions that require the use of a ventilator, oxygen or other technology.

To qualify, parents and caregivers should bring verification from their local Regional Center, the state agency that provides services to children and adults with developmental disabilities, to a vaccination site or their usual health care provider.

People with intellectual or developmental disabilities often have compromised immune systems and can be at high risk for sickness death from Covid. Those who care for them are considered “health care workers” under the department’s guidelines.