CLEVELAND — Is the Vax-a-Million drawing a win for the state of Ohio? It appears it's doing what it was supposed to do: Getting shots into arms.
According to the Ohio Department of Health, the state saw a 106% increase in adult vaccinations a week following the lottery announcement, along with a 44% increase among kids 12-16. The state has seen a slight increase week-to-week since the contest started, but numbers have tapered off since the initial excitement.
Other incentives have started popping up as well, with some companies offering cash and time off to employees. Dating apps Match, Hinge and Bumble offered premium content access to those who showcased their vax status.
In late March, Krispy Kreme starting giving free glazed donuts every day for the rest of the year for those who show their vaccine cards. You can find one in Middleburg Heights or Akron.
Lorain's Rockin' on the River concert series will become "Vaxxin' on the River" July 21 for the Lita Ford show. It will be free to those vaccinated, and Lorain County Public Health will also be hold a vaccine clinic at Black River Landing for people to get a shot and head into the concert for free.
Over the weekend, the Lorain County health department partnered with two local grocery stores to host vaccination clinics. 143 people received gift cards for getting the shot.
In Southwest Ohio, Greene County Public Health offered "Shoot for a Shot" a free day at a local shooting range. On a national scale, Anheuser-Busch promises one free beer to everyone who is 21 or older on July 4 if the U.S. reaches 70% of adults at least partially vaccinated.
So far, just over 42% of Ohioans have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Experts believe a rate of at least 70% is needed for effective herd immunity, although it is possible at least some unvaccinated individuals will have at least some level of protection if they have already had the virus.