Covid-19 vaccine eligibility widens as Bank of States boosts supply

Many states are broadly expanding eligibility for the Covid-19 vaccine this week, unleashing increased demand at a time when supplies are still tight by targeting vaccines on millions more people.

Several states, including Texas, Ohio, Louisiana and Indiana, have set eligibility criteria for ages 16 and over this week, joining states such as Arizona and Georgia that have taken this decision recently. New York made people 30 and over eligible starting Tuesday. Connecticut turns 16 and over Thursday.

In some places that have expanded eligibility, demand still exceeds supply of vaccines. It varies from state to state and even within states, but some people report having difficulty getting an appointment.

States are relying on increasing doses of vaccine to meet needs. President Biden has set a target of 200 million shots by April 30.

Federal data shows that 73.5% of people aged 65 and over have received at least one injection. Overall, at least 150 million doses have been administered in the United States, according to federal data.