COVID vaccines will open to all starting April 5

WISCONSIN–In a joint press conference with the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) on Tuesday, Gov. Tony Evers announced all residents 16 and over will be eligible for COVID-19 vaccinations beginning April 5.

Evers credited the move to an increase in vaccinations available and the pace at which vaccination of Wisconsin residents is occurring. The state has vaccinated 29 percent of its population and is first in the nation in using all of its available vaccines that become available. In addition, 75 percent of those 65 and older have received at least one dose of vaccine and around 50 percent have completed the series.

“While we still have a long way to go, we are getting closer to getting back to our normal Wisconsin life,” Evers said, and added that he knew he was not the only one feeling hopeful and relieved that the state is getting closer to herd immunity, which it hopes to achieve sometime in June.

For his optimism, Evers also cautioned that the pandemic is not over, and the state has seen a rise in the seven day average of infections for the first time in the past three weeks. In the past week, it averaged at 501 per day.

In addition, Evers said the supply of vaccine is still limited and a new variant of the COVID-19 virus has been detected in the state. He urged residents to be diligent in wearing a mask, limiting outings, social distancing, avoiding social gatherings outside your household and getting the vaccine.

“So, folks, don’t give up now…when we are this close to the finish line,” he warned.

Deputy DHS Secretary Julie Willems-Van Dyke reiterated Evers comments on remaining cautious and said over one million people have been completely vaccinated in the state.

“Traveling is still not a safe activity,” she said and added, “Gathering for a meal inside [with those outside your immediate family] should only happen if everyone present is vaccinated.”

Willems Van-Dyke said the seven day average of infections along with 11 more deaths last week–bringing the total to 6,612 in the state–should be a stark reminder to continue mitigating virus transmission. “Let this be a reminder that we all need to do our part to stop the spread,” she stated.

She said that vaccines will now be available at most pharmacies, including CVS, Hy-Vee and Costco as well as smaller pharmacies.

“Opening it to everybody doesn’t mean health care providers can’t continue to prioritize people with chronic conditions first,” she reminded.

Willems-Van Dyke asked that those getting a two part vaccine schedule the second shot immediately.

She said that is important to continue educating the public, and that individuals want to hear about the vaccine from their health care provider. Others may also be influenced by the experiences of co-workers or family members. She encouraged everyone to get the vaccine.

Appointments can be made by contacting your local pharmacy or health care provider. Public Health of Madison and Dane County (PHMDC) is also taking appointments for vaccination at the Alliant Energy Center. Some providers require you to make an appoint through the vaccine registry: https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/covid-19/vaccine-registry.htm. You may also visit vaxfinder.org to register or answers to vaccine questions.