At this moment there are over 40 million vaccines available for Americans to get all the shots they need.
This takes into account those that need initial vaccines and those who qualify for the booster shots. It also covers the kids ages 5-11 expected to qualify in the near future.
There has been a significant spike in demand after the federal recommendation on booster shots was announced, but there are still over 70 million Americans that are unvaccinated.
The supply and manufacturing can withhold the high demands, unlike when the vaccine first came out and various issues created a very slow rollout.
Many vials of the vaccine have been reported as being thrown away in states with the lowest vaccine rates, and while storage of unopened vials can last months, the shelf life once it’s opened is only a matter of hours. States need to pay attention and not order too many to avoid the waste.
Experts share that people in countries with little access to vaccines are forced to go without while Americans choose to not get it, causing many to go to waste.
States are attempting to balance their supplies and have enough for everyone who might want a booster or initial vaccine, while not ordering too many doses.
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