All New Yorkers 16 years of age and older will be eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine starting today.

“The vaccine is the weapon that will win the war, but only if we all take it, and starting April 6, all New Yorkers age 16 and older will be able to get vaccinated," Governor Cuomo said. "Since the start of this critical phase of our fight against COVID, we have made it our top priority to bring the vaccine to the communities that were hit the hardest by the virus, and with the 'Roll Up Your Sleeve' campaign, we are helping ensure that no community gets left behind in the vaccine distribution process. As universal eligibility going into effect, we will continue to work with local leaders to make sure all New Yorkers have access to our vaccination sites. I also want to remind everyone that universal eligibility for the vaccine does not mean we are back to business as usual. The truth is millions of our neighbors still need to get their shot, and we are still in a footrace against the infection rate, so it is imperative that we do not let down our guard and we continue exercising safety protocol.”

Cuomo announced that the universal eligibility is now in effect and all New Yorkers 16 years of age and older are eligible to receive the vaccine.

So far only the Pfizer vaccine may be used on those under 18 years old.

The press release said more than 2 million total COVID-19 vaccine doses have been administered at New York State-run and FEMA-assisted mass vaccination sites.

Statewide, more than 9 million total doses have been administered across all vaccination sites.