As vaccines are becoming more and more available to the public, New York City is finding new ways to incentivize more people into getting vaccinated. From free admission tickets to popular attractions in the city and state, scholarship opportunities for teens, and even a chance to win playoff tickets for the NBA at Barclays Center. While these incentives all sound great, the real question is how will this work? And what about mandatory vaccinations for students returning to school?
I reached out to the Bronx Zoo to learn more about their vaccination incentive and why they decided to offer this to the public. “We are pleased to be a part of New York City’s efforts to safeguard all New Yorkers by providing incentives for getting a COVID-19 vaccine,” said Jim Breheny, Bronx Zoo director. Breheny believes the city should do this together to help stop the spread of COVID-19 and what a better way than to offer something in return. “Our participation, including offering free tickets to those who get vaccinated at the Bronx Zoo, will provide a very convenient option for our neighbors and all New Yorkers to get vaccinated.” From now until June 30th, anyone ages 12 and older can get the Pfizer vaccine shot at the Bronx Zoo and receive a free admission ticket towards their next visit.
While that all sounds fun, CUNY and SUNY schools are making it mandatory for any students, faculty, and staff to receive the shot before the next fall semester. Columbia Law School student Nia Goodman says she doesn’t see a problem with the vaccine requirements. “I don’t think there should be a choice,” Goodman says. “Every year I have to dig through my shot records to prove I’m vaccinated for MMR and meningitis and the like.” Goodman believes getting vaccinated for COVID-19 isn’t any different than vaccines she’s had in the past and that it will only ensure everyone’s safety.
For more information on incentives offered to New Yorkers for the vaccine visit the NYC COVID-19 nationwide information portal.
