Health

State officials are urging — and in some case begging — everyone who is eligible for the vaccine to get it so Kentucky can achieve herd immunity against COVID-19.

Beshear suggested that on Monday, he would give Kentuckians a broad incentive to get a shot: set a vaccination level at which he would remove capacity restrictions, even for events of up to 1,000 people.

The one-shot Johnson and Johnson vaccine will be given at four clinics.

McConnell toured the mass vaccination clinic at the University of Kentucky's Kroger Field and spoke about the need to get at least 75% of residents vaccinated to reach herd immunity.

Kentucky residents age 18 and older are eligible for the vaccine.

Touch decreases cortisol levels, a hormone produced in response to stress. It decreases blood pressure, and it lowers a heart rate. It releases oxytocin, a hormone associated with connection and empathy.

Health officials said an increase in vaccine supplies made it possible to open up more appointments.

The latest survey shows around 50% to 55% of Kentuckians will get the vaccine when they can. To reach herd immunity, 75% to 80% is needed.

The Christian County Health Department announced it is extending the vaccine availability to everyone in Phase 2.

The health department will also continue to offer appointments to all Kentuckians in Phases 1A, 1B and 1C.

See how the first year of the coronavirus pandemic shaped the lives of Hopkinsville residents.

The vaccination eligibility in Kentucky is about to expand to those 50 and older.