Updated: 12:36 PM CST Jan 27, 2021 About 60 different groups and companies wrote letters to influence COVID-19 vaccine decisions in Iowa.KCRG reports states can make their own decisions on who is eligible for vaccinations, even though the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention makes its own recommendations on who should be prioritized for the limited doses of vaccine available.In Iowa, the Infectious Disease Advisory Council creates recommendations to the Iowa Department of Public Health director and medical director in developing COVID-19 vaccine distribution and therapy guidance. The council is made up of medical experts across Iowa.The director of IDPH must approve of those recommendations. She can also reject or add to the recommendations. This occurred in Phase 1B when interim director Kelly Garcia expanded those eligible to receive the vaccine to government officials, health inspectors, and other groups of people. Annelise Walsh, who is with JDRF Eastern Iowa, sa