Joplin first Missouri city to surpass 50% of residents fully vaxxed

The city of Joplin is the only place in Missouri with more than half of the population fully vaccinated. As of Monday, state data shows that 50.2% of eligible residents have gotten two doses of the COVID-19 vaccine. Data also says that nearly 59% of residents have gotten at least one dose.

These numbers come as the U.S. has given full approval to the COVID-19 vaccine made by Pfizer. The Food and Drug Administration’s decision on may help lift public confidence in vaccinations as the nation battles the Delta variant.

When it comes to incentives, more than 540,000 vaccinated Missourians have entered the MO VIP, Missouri’s COVID-19 vaccine incentive program, for a shot at $10,000.

Governor Mike Parson announced the launch of the statewide program on July 21. Approximately 45,000 Missourians have entered to win since the date of the first drawing–winners of this drawing will be announced Wednesday.