Rhode Island Opens Vaccine Availability To Out-Of-State Residents

RHODE ISLAND — Coronavirus vaccinations will be available to both Rhode Island residents and to visitors to the state, Gov. Dan McKee and health officials announced Thursday.

The new policy is set to take effect Monday.

McKee, along with health department officials, said the new policy will override the state's former prohibition on vaccinating people who did not live or work in The Ocean State to be vaccinated.

"This is a win-win for Rhode Island. We're making sure that travelers who are in Rhode Island are getting protection from COVID-19, which keeps us all safer, and we're marketing Rhode Island to travelers as a state that is doing everything possible to make vacationing safe," McKee said in a statement. "To Rhode Islanders 16 and older who have not been vaccinated yet, go out and get your shot today."

People hoping to be vaccinated against the virus can obtain an appointment by visiting the Vaccinate RI website or calling 844-930-1779.

Appointments are not needed for the vaccine sites at Sockanosset Cross Road (100 Sockanosset Cross Rd. in Cranston), the Dunkin' Donuts Center, and in Middletown (1400 West Main Rd. in Middletown).

Vaccines are also available at pharmacies throughout the state. To secure a dose near you, visit the state's vaccination webpage.