Once again, Ohio has expanded the eligibility requirements for the COVID-19 vaccine.
Starting Friday, Ohioans 40 and older will be eligible for their shots as well as those with certain medical conditions, including cancer and obesity, Gov. Mike DeWine announced at a news conference Tuesday morning.
The eligibility for Phase 1E is any age (over 16) with cancer, chronic kidney disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), heart disease and obesity, which will qualify about 766,000 Ohioans. Phase 2C, which lowers the eligibility age to those 40 and older will include about 818,000 additional Ohioans.
By March 29, all Ohioans over the age of 16 will be eligible for the vaccine. The Pfizer vaccine is the only vaccination that is approved for those 16 and older. The Moderna and Johnson & Johnson vaccines are approved for those 18 and older.
𝗢𝗵𝗶𝗼 𝗩𝗮𝗰𝗰𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝗘𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗶𝗯𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗨𝗽𝗱𝗮𝘁𝗲: It's a moral imperative that we move as quickly as we can to vaccinate all Ohioans who wish to be vaccinated. We expect a significant increase in vaccines coming to Ohio soon, so we will expand vaccine eligibility. ⬇ pic.twitter.com/jjFXtMhtf4
— Governor Mike DeWine (@GovMikeDeWine) March 16, 2021
It’s been one year since the battle against COVID-19 really became part of our everyday lives. This announcement comes as a relief to many, but it’s important to remember that we should adhere to health guidelines like wearing masks and keeping physical distance until you are fully vaccinated.
Got questions? Here’s What You Need To Know About Signing Up For A COVID-19 Vaccine In Columbus
