Alaska becomes first US state to offer Covid vaccine to anyone over 16

Alaska has become the first state in the US to open up Covid-19 vaccination for younger people, allowing anyone 16 or older to get the jab.

Governor Mike Dunleavy announced on Tuesday night that the state has dropped the eligibility requirements and the new protocol is “effective immediately” for “anyone who lives or works in Alaska”.

“This historic step is yet another nationwide first for Alaska, but it should come as no surprise. Since day one, your response to the pandemic has been hands-down the best in the nation,” Mr Dunleavy said in a statement.

According to the state government, Pfizer vaccine would available to individuals who are 16 and older and Johnson & Johnson vaccine and the Moderna vaccine would be given to people 18 and older.