Harris Co. Judge Lina Hidalgo announces new COVID-19 vaccine waitlist

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) -- Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo announced Monday afternoon a new COVID-19 vaccine waitlist, in an effort to ensure those who are high priority don't get overlooked and make for a smoother process.

Hidalgo explained the basics of how the waitlist will work. Hidalgo was joined by Dr. Sherri Onyiego, the interim local health authority for Harris County Public Health.

The waitlist is said to be weighted and randomized, meaning the website won't necessarily favor whoever has the quickest internet connection. Once the portal opens Tuesday, everyone will be able to register.

WATCH: Getting vaccine shouldn't be like 'The Hunger Games,' judge says

In observing the county's efforts to vaccinate high-risk residents against COVID-19, Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo gave some blunt words over the way registration is being done.

If you fall under the 1A, 1B or seniors groups, then your registration will be weighted for priority, and it will then be randomized within the priority list.

The launch of this new portal and waitlist expands the previous process by allowing eligible residents to sign up for vaccines on their own directly, according to a press release from the county.

Eligible residents without internet access can also call 832 927-8787 once the portal is live to be placed on the waitlist.

If you do not fall under those three groups, you will still be able to register, but it means you'll be on a waitlist for when the vaccine opens to the general public.

In addition to the new portal, the public health department will also be launching a COVID-19 vaccine data hub. The hub will show vaccine availability, distribution and other demographic data.

SEE RELATED STORY: County-by-county breakdown on COVID-19 vaccine distributions