COVID-19 vaccinations began Tuesday for a number of county first responders. Local hospitals are working to vaccinate their employees, while first responders and other health care professionals received their first of two doses of the vaccine at the Etowah County Health Department.

A phased plan to vaccinate frontline workers and others at high risk of exposure to COVID-19 is being rolled out across Alabama and the U.S.

In the meantime, you can do your part to slow the spread -- don't forget to mask up, maintain social distancing, wash your hands and avoid large gatherings.

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