BOSTON – Governor Charlie Baker said all residents of Massachusetts age 16 and older will be eligible for a coronavirus vaccine beginning April 19.
The state announced Wednesday that even before that date, residents age 60 and older as well as workers considered essential can get a vaccine starting March 22, while those 55 and older can get a shot beginning April 5.
“There’s a very strong and important correlation between COVID and age, and we believe that adding these groups by age will help us vaccinate more of our most vulnerable population faster,” said Baker.
The essential workers eligible for a vaccination starting March 22 include those who work at supermarkets and convenience stores, restaurant workers, transit employees, and funeral home workers.
All residents can preregister for an appointment at a mass vaccination site on the state’s website, said Baker.
He said that appointments will be offered based on eligibility and available appointments near the resident’s location.
More sites are expected to be introduced as part of the preregistration process beginning in April.
The administration has received assurances from the federal government that an increased vaccine supply will be available soon, however it may still take weeks for people to be notified that an appointment is available at a mass vaccination site.
The state also announced $27.4 million in federal funding to increase vaccine acceptance and administration rates as well as reach priority populations as part of the state’s Vaccine Equity Initiative.
The funds include $10.6 million to provide direct assistance with vaccine access, including appointment registration assistance, transportation to clinics and medical interpretation.
It also includes $4.7 million to support municipalities and local boards of health through the direct funding of the state’s 20 communities hit hardest by the pandemic.
The Associated Press contributed to this article.
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