Feb 9, 2021 - Health

Most seniors aren't vaccinated yet

Marisa Fernandez

Illustration of a red cross on a hurdle — Illustration: Sarah Grillo/Axios

Most seniors have not gotten a COVID-19 vaccine yet, according to an analysis from the Kaiser Family Foundation.

Why it matters: There's simply not enough vaccine available right now to take on every priority. Even as states eye the next phase of the process and additional high-risk groups clamor for access, there's still a long way to go just in protecting most vulnerable.

By the numbers: In the first month of vaccinations, about 29% of recipients were 65 or older, per KFF.

The first round of vaccines was directed primarily at health care workers and the residents of long-term care facilities.

Where it stands: West Virginia has vaccinated the most seniors at 34%, thanks to a focused effort in nursing homes.

Nine states: West Virginia, North Carolina, Florida, Mississippi, Delaware, Texas, Michigan, New Jersey, and Wisconsin and Washington D.C. report vaccinating at least 20% of seniors.

Yes, but: Demographic data aren't available in some states and cities, which will make it hard to track how well the U.S. is addressing high-risk groups as more people become eligible.

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Most seniors aren't vaccinated yet

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