The US state of New Jersey will give a free beer to locals who get a COVID-19 vaccine in May.
It's part of a new programme designed to get eligible residents vaccinated as part of the state's 'Operation Jersey Summer', which aims to make getting immunised easier by offering walk-in appointments at mega-sites and other locations.
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy announced the state is teaming up with 13 breweries state-wide to deliver the 'Shot and a Beer' initiative.
"We're launching our 'Shot and a Beer' program to encourage eligible New Jerseyans ages 21+ to get vaccinated," Murphy said on Twitter.
"Any New Jerseyan who gets their first vaccine dose in the month of May and takes their vaccination card to a participating brewery will receive a free beer."
Murphy confirmed during a press conference the breweries themselves are footing the bill for the free drinks.
"We are putting into overdrive our work to hit our initial target of 4.7 million vaccinated New Jerseyans by June 30th," Murphy added.
The state is also hoping to increase vaccination numbers by having door-to-door campaigns, phone calls to people who booked a vaccine slot but didn't show up, and outreach with community partners.
So far, nearly 3.3 million New Jersey residents are fully vaccinated, according to the state's official website.
New Jersey isn't the only state offering an incentive programme to get a vaccine. West Virginia Governor Jim Justice announced last week residents aged 16 to 35 who get the jab will receive a $100 savings bond.
Connecticut is also offering a free drinks incentive. Residents who get fully vaccinated and show their vaccine cards at certain restaurants will get a free drink between May 19 and 31.
