Alaska Becomes First U.S. State to Open COVID-19 Vaccinations to Anyone Age 16 and Older

Alaska is leading the U.S. in the distribution of the COVID-19 vaccine, with anyone age 16 or older that lives or works in the state now able to get vaccinated. 'This historic step is yet another nationwide first for Alaska, but it should come as no surprise,' Gov. Mike Dunleavy said in a statement on Tuesday. 'Since day one, your response to the pandemic has been hands-down the best in the nation. I couldn't be prouder of Alaska's response.' There are currently three COVID vaccines that have been FDA approved: Pfizer and Moderna, which each require two doses, and Johnson & Johnson, a single-dose vaccine that is currently being rolled out. Pfizer is available to anyone 16 and older in Alaska, while Moderna and J & J are available to anyone 18 and older in the state.