Everyone 16+ now eligible for COVID-19 vaccine, clinic to be held at Milwaukee Public Market

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) – On Monday, April 5, everyone who is at least 16-years-old is now eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine in Wisconsin.

The state just opened up eligibility to get more people scheduled for the shot as soon as possible.

“I know this past year hasn’t been easy for anyone, and I want to express my appreciation to all Wisconsinites who are making sacrifices such as staying home, wearing a mask, and keeping six feet from others,” said DHS Secretary-designee Karen Timberlake. “These actions are backed by science. They help to slow the spread of COVID-19 and save lives. And today, we are excited to give everyone 16 and older the opportunity to continue protecting themselves and their loved ones from this virus. It will take patience, but we encourage everyone to get vaccinated.”

Officials say Wisconsin has consistently ranked top in the nation for vaccine administration. The state opened eligibility nearly a month earlier than expected. 

"We know that there are people out there that are going to be newly eligible who maybe haven’t been thinking about getting vaccinated as much because they assumed it was going to be a lot longer period of time. We really want to stress the important message is the vaccines, the three vaccines that are currently approved, are highly effective, very safe, part of people protecting themselves but also people around them, family, friends, and within the community," said Dr. Matt Anderson, Senior Medical Director, Primary Care at UW Health. 

Hayat Pharmacy is hosting a vaccine clinic at the Milwaukee Public Market on Monday from 12-8 p.m. Appointments can be scheduled, but walk-ins are also welcome.

The clinic will be held again on April 26 and May 3.