Michigan expands vaccine eligibility to everyone 16+

NILES, Mich. -- It’s the day Michiganders have been waiting for as everyone 16 or older can sign up for a COVID-19 vaccine.

“It’s extremely important that younger generations also receive the vaccine as we want to move toward that herd immunity across all age groups,” said Gillian Conrad, MPH, Communications Manager at the Berrien County Health Department. “With rising cases amongst young people, in particular high school, it might be worth considering getting your 16 or 17-year-old vaccinated.”
As the Michigan Health & Hospital Association reports a surge in younger adults being hospitalized statewide, and right here at home, Lakeland Hospital is seeing its patient count double, Monday brought a glimmer of hope that we are in the final stretch of the pandemic as vaccine eligibility fully opened.
The Berrien County Health Department already opened up appointments online, as well as Spectrum Health Lakeland and some Meijer, Rite Aid and Walgreens locations in Berrien County.
Berrien County has already given 37 percent of residents at least their first shot and hopes this younger group shows the same enthusiasm.
“The goal in Michigan is to have 70% of our individuals vaccinated, we are well over half way there in only just about three months,” said Conrad.
Minors will need a parent or guardian to sign them up for the vaccine as well as be present at their appointment. Right now, only the Pfizer vaccine is authorized for 16 and 17-year-olds.