Public and private EMS workers were among the first Ohioans eligible to receive a COVID-19 vaccine, but only about 40% locally opted to get the first dose, according to Summit County Public Health. "We did some pre-surveys, so it is what we were expecting," Summit County Public Health Public Information Officer Marlene Martin said. "We were hoping for a higher turnout. Obviously, our ideal would have been 100%." The county started administering the first dose of the Moderna vaccine to EMS workers on Dec. 26 as part of Ohio's phased approach. Distribution of the second dose will begin Jan. 23. The state is currently in Phase 1A. Hospitals, local health departments and health care systems are distributing vaccines to essential workers in health care settings; pharmacies are distributing to long-term care and nursing home residents and staff; and the local health departments are administering to congregate care staff and residents, EMS first responders and any remaining long-term care facility staff.