New Jersey will enter its next phase of vaccinations on April 5, expanding eligibility to a swath of new groups, including university faculty and staff, those above the age of 55 and utility personnel, Gov. Phil Murphy announced Friday.
“We are already averaging approximately half a million shots per week, and with an expected increase in our federal allocation, we are confident we can expand our vaccination program to more of our essential workers and vulnerable populations,” Murphy said. “Together with our community partners and a steady supply of vaccine from the federal government, we will meet — and exceed — our goal of vaccinating 4.7 million New Jersey adults.”
The move comes as production of vaccine ramps up. Individuals 16 and older with intellectual or developmental disabilities, and a bevy of construction trades workers will also become eligible early next month.
So will members of the media, sanitation workers, laundry service workers and librarians and library support staff.
“New Jersey’s phased vaccine rollout continues to prioritize preventing severe illness and death and supporting essential societal functioning,” New Jersey Department of Health Commissioner Judith Persichilli said. “With the anticipated increased supply of vaccine, more New Jersey residents will have the opportunity to be protected against COVID-19.”