A free beer in exchange for agreeing to be vaccinated with …

A beer for a vaccine is the unusual proposal promoted by the US state of New Jersey to carry out coronavirus vaccination among the part of the population that is still hesitant to receive a first dose.

The program called “Shot and Beer” consists of a vaccination record that will also serve as a ticket for a free beer in various bars in the state.

New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy announced the program and explained that it offers a free glass of beer at participating establishments. anyone over the age of 21 who receives their first dose of the vaccine this month.

The plan is part of Murphy’s attempt to increase the state’s immunization count and meet his goal of 4.7 million residents vaccinated by the end of June.

“We need that boost. We have to find a way to motivate people and this is a way to do itPerry N. Halkitis, dean of the Rutgers School of Public Health, told ABC News.

As of Monday, more than 7.5 million doses had been administered in New Jersey, including 3.2 million for residents.

This implies that about 37% of the state’s total population has been fully immunized, according to the local health department.

As in most countries, the number of new daily vaccinations administered has steadily declined in recent weeks, due to a marked lack of interest from one sector of society.

The state is also taking other steps to increase the number of vaccinations, including door-to-door campaigns and phone calls to people who have pre-registered but missed their appointments.