Gov. Walz visits COVID-19 vaccine clinic for first responders, Phase 1A of vaccinations still on track

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz visited a COVID-19 vaccine center for first responders in Wayzata on Friday.

Walz said there still is data remaining to be seen over whether or not the recent holidays will throw a wrench in the state’s progress in combatting the virus.

"That sense of normalcy is returning. However, there’s still a lot to be done," Walz said.

The governor also said President-elect Joe Biden’s news on speeding up the vaccination process makes everyone "really happy," but added it remains to be seen how that will translate for Minnesota going forward.

The Minnesota Department of Health is continuing to work hard in vaccinating as quickly as possible. MDH Commissioner Jan Malcolm noted that the state is still on track to have all of Phase 1A workers vaccinated by the end of the month, with Tier 1 of Phase 1A likely finishing up this weekend.

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Walz and other health officials continue to urge Minnesotans to practice the safety guidelines during this shift in the pandemic.

In regards to dialing back, Walz said the intent is to not have to do that but if red flags arise in the data, then it’s something they will have to deal with.

"The virus will go on how we act," he added, urging people to continue to follow health guidelines and the state will keep pushing out vaccines as soon as possible.