Gov. Phil Murphy says New Jersey "will be ready" when a COVID-19 vaccine is released.

The governor announced the state's preliminary plans for a future coronavirus vaccine during a virtual press conference on Monday.

The plan will aim to provide equitable access to a vaccine, achieve maximum community protection and build public trust. The initial goal is to vaccinate 70% of New Jersey's adult population within the first six months of a vaccine becoming available.

Due to a limited initial supply in vaccines, the rollout process will prioritize those at highest risk of infection, vulnerable communities and those that would benefit most from being vaccinated early.

Murphy added that New Jersey is committed to building trust in the vaccine as skepticism of it is being seen through social media conspiracy theories.

State officials also reminded residents to talk with contact tracers to help stop the growing spread of the virus.

A total of 1,223 new coronavirus cases were reported in the state with Bergen, Essex, Middlesex, Passaic and Union counties each reporting at least 110 cases on Monday.

The statewide positivity rate for New Jersey for all tests recorded on Oct. 22 was 4.48%. A total of 767 confirmed coronavirus patients are in hospitals with 178 in intensive care units and 75 on ventilators.

New Jersey reported an additional seven deaths, bringing the Garden State's total to 14,503.