The state of Vermont announced its criteria for vaccine priority this week and “black, indigenous, or people of color (BIPOC)” as well as, “English language learners and people in immigrant/refugee communities” are now able to access a vaccine ahead of white Vermont residents.
Vermont’s new effort to vaccinate minorities first follows the template of Montana, which prioritized Native Americans and other people of color in January because they are seen as more vulnerable to Covid.
Blacks make up just 2% of Vermont’s total population, yet account for 4% of the Covid-19 infection rate.
White residents that are otherwise healthy and between the ages of 16-40 are not yet as big a priority. The state hopes it will encourage minorities to get their Covid-19 vaccine as soon as possible.
You can read the criteria for the Vermont vaccine here. It is expected to change and open up to all Vermont residents on April 19.
