Minnesota ranks sixth nationally in 5-11 vaccinations and second nationally in booster doses administered
Today Governor Tim Walz announced that Minnesota is a national leader in vaccinating children 5-11 years old and administering booster doses to adults. This week the state also crossed the milestone of getting 80% of adults at least one COVID-19 vaccine dose.
Minnesota is currently ranked sixth in the nation for the percentage of children 5-11 years old who have at least one COVID-19 vaccine dose. [Nearly 20%] of all children 5-11 years old have received at least one vaccine dose since that age population became authorized to receive a shot earlier this month. In just the first 19 days of eligibility, [nearly 100,000] Minnesotans 5-11 years old have rolled up their sleeves. Parents can learn more about COVID-19 vaccines for children and teens and find where to get their children vaccinated at mn.gov/vaxforkids.
Minnesota also ranks second nationally in percent of fully vaccinated people with booster doses. Providers across the state have administered more than 881,000 third doses and booster doses, and according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Minnesota follows only Vermont in booster administration. On Friday, Governor Walz announced that all fully-vaccinated Minnesota adults are now able to get COVID-19 booster shots. Governor Walz and state health officials are encouraging Minnesotans to get their booster dose as soon as they are due in order to be best protected as life moves indoors for the winter and holiday celebrations.
“We need every eligible Minnesotan vaccinated to slow the spread of COVID in our schools and communities and help our overburdened hospitals,” said Governor Walz. “Right now, thousands of families are stepping up to get their children vaccinated and boost their own protection. I am proud of our state for meeting this moment and doing our part to curb this current surge. This holiday season: get your children vaccinated, and get your booster when you’re due.”
“Amid these difficult days facing another surge in our state, I am incredibly proud of our young people for using the most powerful tool we have to protect our communities from COVID: the vaccine. Each and every one of these kids is a bright spot of hope,” said Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan. “As the mother of a recently vaccinated 8-year-old, I love knowing tens of thousands of families are feeling that profound sense of relief that comes from getting your child vaccinated. Let’s keep it up and keep our families safe this holiday season, Minnesota.”
Minnesota has now vaccinated more than 80% of adults 18 years of age and older, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. More than 3.48 Million Minnesotans have gotten at least one COVID-19 vaccine dose.