Gov. Kim Reynolds says Iowa will be able to expand vaccine eligibility to all residents over the age of 16 beginning on Monday, April 5. Reynolds set that target date earlier this month, and she announced during her press conference this (Wednesday) morning the state’s weekly allocations have increased to a level where they are ready to move forward.
According to Reynolds, more than 1.5 million vaccine doses have been administered to Iowans ages 18 and older as of Wednesday, which puts the state at fifth in the nation with an 86 percent administration rate. Forty percent of Iowans 18 and older and 85 percent of individuals over 65 years old have received at least one dose. Approximately 603,000 Iowans, or a quarter of the state’s population, is fully vaccinated. With eligibility expanding broadly next week, Reynolds reminds Iowans they may still have to wait awhile to get their shot.
Based on current national daily administration rates, 75 percent of Americans will be vaccinated by July 2. As production and distribution increases, Reynolds says that 75 percent mark could be met as soon as May 17. She stresses continued vigilance by Iowans in the coming months is critical to expediate a return to normal, especially as warmer weather arrives and the economy further reopens.
She and Iowa Department of Public Health Director, Kelly Garcia, reassured Iowans who have been hesitant to be immunized of the shots’ safety and efficacy. Both emphasized the importance of getting vaccinated in order to return to our pre-pandemic lives. For more information on finding a vaccine provider near you or for COVID-19 activity in Iowa, follow the links included below.
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