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NY Launches 'Vax & Scratch' Lottery, $5 Million Prize For COVID Vaccine Takers

By

Jen Chung

Published May 20, 2021

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A graphic showing that the incentives for the "Vax & Scratch" range from $20 to $5 million for first place (2nd is $50,000, third is $20,000)

 

NY Governor's office

By

Jen Chung

Published May 20, 2021

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To encourage more people to take COVID-19 vaccines, New York State is bringing in the big bucks via the New York Lottery.

Governor Andrew Cuomo announced Thursday that anyone who receives doses at any of the 10 state-run vaccination sites between May 24 and May 28 will get a "Vax & Scratch" lottery card. The first prize is $5 million, but participants will have a one-in-nine chance of winning various amounts, which start at $20.

"If you were undecided about getting a vaccine, or dubious about getting a vaccine, now you have this bonus," the governor said. "Everybody wins!"

Vax & Scratch cards are at the 10 state-run vaccination sites

NY Governor's office

As of Thursday, 62% of New York state residents have received at least one dose of the vaccine, while 53% are fully vaccinated. (In New York City, 48% of eligible residents have had one dose, while 40% are fully vaccinated.) The urgency to get shots into arms is more acute now that the state has lifted most COVID-19 restrictions and hopes to recharge the economy.

Ohio has recorded a 53% week-over-week increase in vaccinations after Governor Mike DeWine announced five people could win $1 million each or a free ride to a state college in their "Vax-a-million" lottery program.

In order to improve access to vaccines even easier, the governor also announced that the state would set up clinics at New York airports, including Laguardia and JFK.

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governor cuomo

lottery

andrew cuomo

new york

vaccine

Jen Chung

Jen Chung is a former WNYC and Gothamist editor.

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Gothamist is funded by sponsors and member donations

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