On Thursday, the state expanded vaccine eligibility to additional populations, including residents aged 65 years and older, those between the ages of 16 and 64 with certain chronic medical conditions, and smokers. Individuals between the ages of 16 and 64 with the following conditions are now eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine: cancer, chronic kidney disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, Down syndrome, heart failure, coronary artery disease, cardiomyopathies, obesity, sickle cell disease, and diabetes. With this expansion, over 4 million New Jerseyans are now eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine.

As of yesterday, more than 310,000 vaccine doses have been administered throughout New Jersey. Although more individuals are now eligible to receive the vaccine, this expansion has created an increased demand for the same limited supply. Currently, the state is receiving only a little over 100,000 doses a week. The Governor and NJDOH Commissioner have asked individuals to be patient as the state continues to update and implement its vaccine distribution plan. 

To receive notifications regarding your eligibility to receive the COVID-19 vaccine, please sign-up on the NJ Vaccine Scheduling System and atlantichealth.org. You will be contacted when appointments become available. The County of Morris has also established a COVID-19 Hotline where further information can be obtained. To access the hotline, please call (973) 829-8250. 

We will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as they become available. 

Have a good weekend, and take care. 

Sarah Neibart

Mayor, Mendham Township

sneibart@mendhamtownship.org