US Communities Push to Vaccinate Young Adults

FORT WASHINGTON, MARYLAND - The race to get the COVID-19 vaccine into the arms of Americans is now focusing on young adults and adolescents. They’re eligible to be vaccinated but not necessarily rushing out to get the shot.

Charlene Mitchell knocks on the doors of homes in an African American neighborhood outside Washington, D.C. She’s in search of those who haven’t received a COVID-19 vaccination. Mitchell is among thousands of foot soldiers canvassing U.S. communities hoping to encourage hesitant young Americans to get a shot. “Reaching those who are reluctant requires you talk to them face to face,” Mitchell tells VOA. "I try to give young folks science-based information and tell them they shouldn’t be scared of the shot.” Mitchell and her mother are part of a group in Prince George’s County, Maryland, hoping to encourage reluctant young adults to get vaccinated. “I explain how they can help protect others from getting sick.”