"Today marks an important moment in the COVID-19 pandemic in the United States – the date by which states have been asked to expand vaccine eligibility to anyone 16 or older.

Although many states have already been vaccinating this segment of the population prior to today, it is exciting to have reached this long-awaited point in the fight against COVID-19. But, with approximately 25 percent of all Americans vaccinated, we know there is still a long way to go to reach the finish line.

For that reason, on behalf of the Emergency Nurses Association, I want to continue to encourage everyone eligible to get vaccinated. Just as you’ve worn your mask, practiced social distancing and followed all the other safety recommendations to slow the spread of COVID-19 over the last year, rolling up your sleeve to receive the vaccine is the next critical step.

Working a vaccination clinic in Indianapolis over the last few weeks, I have seen excitement and relief among the people getting their first and second doses. I’ve made sure to thank everyone doing their part and encouraged them to tell the people they know to do the same because, to get to the other side of this thing, it will take all of us.

I hope everyone is ready for their turn, but if you’re still unsure, please visit the ENA website’s #EducateToVaccinate page to learn more about the vaccines and vaccine safety. You can even download informational posters and “I Got Vaccinated” stickers.

If you’ve already been vaccinated, I encourage you to help spread the word about your experience – the process, the side effects and whatever else you can share with your family, friends and colleagues to help them understand all they can about COVID-19 vaccines."

Ron Kraus, MSN, RN, EMT, CEN, ACNS-BC, TCRN

2021 ENA President