NJ Allowing More People To Get COVID Vaccine, Including 2M Smokers

New Jersey will open up COVID-19 vaccinations to residents 65 years and older and anyone between the ages of 16-64 with medical conditions, in a major step toward the state's goal of vaccinating three-quarters of the population by June. 

The list of what qualifies as a chronic health condition includes people with cancer, heart disease, diabetes, sickle cell disease, chronic kidney disease, down syndrome and the state's 2 million smokers.

Health Commissioner Judy Persichilli said vaccination sites won't be asking for documentation of medical conditions or a person's age, but appointments are required. 

Persichilli said people who are pregnant or immunocompromised can also register, but should check with their doctors first.

The state has administered nearly 40 percent of its doses to health care workers, police, firefighters, nursing home residents and people in correctional facilities.

Anyone who lives, works or studies in New Jersey can register for the shot at covidvaccine.nj.gov.