US Vaccine 'Queue Jumping' Surges...Prosecutors Launch Investigation

Using Connections and Bribes Without Discrimination
'Vaccine Hunters' Exploiting Priority System Emerge

[Image source=AP Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Hyunwoo Lee] In the United States, cases of queue-jumping to receive COVID-19 vaccinations out of turn have been increasing, prompting prosecutors in some states to launch investigations, turning it into a social issue. Amid widespread use of various connections and bribery, so-called "vaccine hunters" have emerged, who exploit priority rules by moving between states to get vaccinated first.

According to the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) on the 6th (local time), as cases of queue-jumping by using connections or exploiting loopholes in state regulations have increased, prosecutors in at least two states have started investigations. The U.S. health authorities reportedly reduced vaccine allocations to hospitals suspected of not following the vaccination order, the newspaper said.

On the same day, Peter Neronha, Attorney General of Rhode Island, stated, "We are investigating whether two hospitals violated state regulations by administering vaccines to staff members who are not medical personnel." These hospitals reportedly allowed board members to receive vaccines first regardless of their age or occupation. In a letter sent to the hospitals, Attorney General Neronha warned, "There are particular concerns regarding vaccine administration to hospital board members and administrative staff who mainly handle phone duties."

In New York, a fitness instructor claimed to be an "educator" and was able to get vaccinated early at a hospital, a story he posted on social media, which drew public backlash. Eventually, he had to post again, saying, "I made a terrible mistake and sincerely apologize." When asked about the Griffiths case during a press conference, New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio pointed out, "He does not appear to be someone who should be getting vaccinated."

In DeKalb County, Georgia, which includes part of Atlanta, it was revealed that some residents shared QR codes proving vaccination eligibility with acquaintances, allowing hundreds to get vaccinated early.

Meanwhile, the New York Times (NYT) reported that many "vaccine hunters" cross state lines to get vaccinated first by exploiting different vaccine priority regulations in each state. Georgia allows vaccination for seniors aged 65 and older, attracting many people from neighboring states that only allow those aged 70 or 75 and older to come to Georgia for vaccination. Ohio recorded at least 21,501 out-of-state individuals, and Florida had at least 57,000 visitors who came to get vaccinated.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.