Vaccines Now Available for 9/11 First Responders Facing Increased COVID-19 Risks

Just over 19 years ago, 9/11 first responders ran toward danger to save their fellow Americans. At a time when the nation stood largely paralyzed by fear and loss, these heroes gave us hope. In that moment, few watching could imagine those dangers would persist decades later. But, that is the reality 9/11 responders and survivors currently face.

When the Twin Towers fell, the collapse blanketed the area in toxic dust. This hazardous cloud put first responders and locals at risk of a number of diseases, many affecting the respiratory system. In the years since 9/11, studies have also tied this exposure to a number of cancers. Now, in the midst of an unprecedented pandemic, these survivors face another threat: COVID-19.

9/11 Conditions Tied to Elevated COVID-19 Risk

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) maintains a list of conditions tied to elevated coronavirus risk. According to that list, the following conditions may come with higher than normal risk of severe COVID-19:

• Asthm
• Cancer
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• Compromised immune system
• Pulmonary fibrosis

All of these conditions, except a compromised immune system, appear on the World Trade Center Health Program's list of covered conditions. But, cancer treatment can weaken the immune system, and cancer is on the list. Therefore 9/11 exposure may have put responders and survivors with these conditions at risk of severe COVID-19.

At this time, it is unclear whether or not 9/11 survivors are at a higher risk of death if they do contract COVID-19. However, advocates have emphasized the importance of vaccination as a way to minimize risk.

9/11 Survivors Are Eligible for the COVID-19 Vaccine in New York

On February 15, 2021, 9/11 responders and survivors became eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine in New York. On that date, the eligibility criteria expanded to include adults under the age of 65 with specific conditions.

Those conditions included any illness associated with a higher risk of severe COVID-19. As mentioned previously, 9/11 associated respiratory conditions are considered high risk for severe COVID-19. Therefore these eligibility criteria open vaccination to 9/11 responders and survivors.

9/11 advocates and responders have encouraged survivors to get vaccinated.

How 9/11 Responders Can Secure a COVID-19 Vaccine Appointment in New York

9/11 heroes have a couple of options for setting up vaccine appointments in New York:

• Use the Am I Eligible Tool.
  This tool can determine eligibility and set up an appointment.
• Call the New York State COVID-19 Vaccination Hotline at 1-833-NYS-4-VAX (1-833-697-4829).

In order to receive a vaccine, eligible individuals must fill out the COVID-19 Vaccine Form. They must also bring proof of eligibility to the vaccine appointment. The second vaccination will be automatically scheduled upon receipt of the first dose.

COVID-19 Vaccines for 9/11 Responders Outside New York State

Individuals with 9/11 exposure should monitor their state COVID-19 vaccination pages. You can find a list of these pages here.

Resources for 9/11 Heroes

Between 9/11 illnesses and the COVID-19 pandemic, first responders and survivors face unprecedented challenges. The federal government has multiple programs aimed at decreasing the burden of these difficulties. If you or a loved one have a 9/11 related illness or injury, you should speak with one of our legal experts today. These experts can help secure financial assistance and healthcare for 9/11 survivors and responders.

You can find additional information on 9/11 assistance by clicking the appropriate link below.

9/11 Victim Compensation Fund >>
9/11 Victim Compensation Fund FAQ >>