Florida takes measures to block ‘vaccine tourists’
Health officials in Florida have responded to the growing unease over ‘vaccine tourists.’
People seeking a jab in the Sunshine State must now be able to prove local residency.
"We’re only doing for Florida residents. You’ve got to live here either full-time or at least part-time," said Florida Governor Ron DeSantis.
Florida had started offering vaccinations to anyone 65 years old and up without any proof of residency.
There have been concerns that ‘snowbirds’ were flying south just to get vaccinated, although some of these own property in the state.
That would be a valid reason to get vaccinated in Florida but not for tourists with no ties in Florida.
"That can include people who live here half the year, but it’s not for people just visiting," the Governor said.
For several days media reports have published stories of people purportedly flying in for vaccinations.
There are more than four million Florida residents over 65, with some complaining of long waits to get a vaccination appointment.
As of the beginning of the week, just over one million vaccinations have been carried out in Florida.
Written by Ray Montgomery, US Editor
TravelMole Editorial Team
Editor for TravelMole North America and Asia pacific regions. Ray is a highly experienced (15+ years) skilled journalist and editor predominantly in travel, hospitality and lifestyle working with a huge number of major market-leading brands. He has also cover in-depth news, interviews and features in general business, finance, tech and geopolitical issues for a select few major news outlets and publishers.
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