Ohio sees high vaccination rate after it offers $1 million in lottery prize

Ohio has seen a monumental increase in COVID-19 vaccinations after the state announced a lottery prize for the resident who received their first shot. Of the announced lottery, people could win one of five $1m prizes. Two days later after the lottery was announced, Ohio, on Friday, saw the highest number of people getting the vaccine in three weeks, state health officials said. 

The lottery named “Vax-a-million”, prompted more than 25,400 shots to be administered on Friday. It also saw vaccinations for people aged 30 to 74 increase by 6% after weeks of decline.

According to a report in the Guardian, state health officials are encouraged by the increase in vaccinations but don’t know if “Vax-a-million” is the reason behind it.

“Not only have we achieved our goal of increasing public awareness and interest, but we have slowed what was a consistent decline, and in certain age groups we’re seeing an increase again,” the state health director, Stephanie McCloud, was quoted by the Guardian, as saying.

How does “Vax-a-million” work?

Ohio’s governor Mike DeWine unveiled the lottery last Wednesday. People, who have gotten at least one of the vaccine, can enter through a hotline or online.

Residents aged 18 and older can enter the draw for one of five $1m prizes. For ages 12-17, they can enter the lottery to win one of five scholarships to cover the cost of going to a college or university for four years.

Also Read | CDC recommends use of Pfizer jab for children aged 12-15 in US

Ohio is using the federal funds for the initiative.

The state will announce its first winner on May 26. Other winners will be announced each subsequent Wednesday until 23 June.