Some Washington parents holding off on letting teens be vaccinated as eligibility opens up | Local News

By Editor Last updated Jun 30, 2021

VANCOUVER, WA (KPTV) – Vaccine eligibility is open to anybody in Washington aged 16 and over on Thursday. Which means that 1.5 million extra Washingtoners might be eligible along with the 5 million already eligible.

“Tomorrow is a day so many people have been ready for,” mentioned Michele Roberts, performing secretary of the Washington Division of Well being, in a press convention on Wednesday.

With the entitlement opening on Thursday, a priority arises over the inflow of appointments.

“I’ve a favor to ask of you, please be affected person,” mentioned Roberts.

Dan Laster, the director of the Vaccine Command and Coordination Methods, mentioned they had been ready.

“We’ll know on the finish of the day, however all of the indicators are that we’re prepared,” mentioned Laster. “We now have labored very arduous throughout the state with LHAs, personal sector companions, to construct capability the place we want it.”

Nonetheless, simply because eligibility is opened does not imply that everybody needs to get their dose.

“There is not as a lot analysis as I would love,” mentioned Makaila Unfastened, a 17-year-old Washingtonian.

Karin Unfastened is the mom of 17-year-old Makaila. Whereas approving these 16-year-olds and older, Pfizer mentioned details about vaccines and youngsters was so new that they’d maintain again on a dose of Makaila.

“There’s all the time a distinct story and a distinct, there’s simply a lot data to know, so we’ve not had an opportunity to delve into it,” mentioned Unfastened. “I wish to know extra about it.”

If you happen to’re a 16- or 17-year-old in Washington searching for a vaccine, the Division of Well being mentioned you want your dad and mom’ approval to get your dose.

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