CLEVELAND — Gov. Mike DeWine is getting a lot of attention from his announcement that teenagers who get the COVID-19 vaccine could be eligible for a full ride college scholarship.
Jaden Jefferson, 13, is a middle school student and also a budding news reporter. He also just got his first dose of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine.
“It went great! I’m feeling good after it. It was a fairly easy process. I think the state’s office has made it fairly easy for me to be able to do it,” said Jefferson.
Jefferson always planned on getting his shot to help get life back to normal, but he hopes an added incentive will get more people his age to join him.
“I know there are some people that really are just cannot be convinced to get the shot, but I know there are definitely a lot of people that are going to want to get the shot now because of that extra benefit that comes with the opportunity to get a full-ride scholarship. For many people, that’s a big deal,” he said.
DeWine said kids ages 12-17 could win a full-ride scholarship if they get the COVID-19 vaccine. The scholarship would cover the cost of textbooks, room and board, and tuition at any Ohio public college or university.
Pediatrician Dr. Shelly Senders believes the incentives could help get more needles in arms.
“I think it’s a great idea. You know, glitzy things are always a great idea, and I think they probably push a few people over the edge, people who were wondering about it might be interested in getting vaccinated,” said Senders.
But he does point out that this isn’t exactly an incentive that applies to everyone.
“It’s not necessarily going to appeal to people who are not interested in higher education. In a lot of ways, there’s a lot of skepticism in differing communities about the need for a vaccine — the safety of a vaccine,” said Senders.
And when it comes to encouraging people to get vaccinated, the best solution is communication.
“One of the biggest challenges is to get enough people out there having these conversations everyday, every week every month to make that point.”
Several hospital providers have begun taking appointments for kids over age 12.
Senders Pediatrics is participating in the Novavax trial for 12- to 17-year-olds. Those interested can contact Senders Pediatrics. Participants can be compensated.
