Starting today, April 29, all state-run vaccination facilities will accept walk-in appointments to receive the COVID vaccination. Governor Andrew Cuomo made the announcement earlier this week. The walk-in appointments are reserved for first doses only, with second doses to be scheduled automatically after administration of the initial shot. They will be available on a first come, first served basis. All you ill need is an ID.

State-run facilities in our area include the Ulster County Fairgrounds (249 Libertyville Road, New Paltz) and the SUNY Orange Middletown campus (9 East Conkling Avenue, Middletown).

In the announcement, Cuomo also encouraged all vaccine providers to allow walk-in appointments for eligible New Yorkers as well.

"The more New Yorkers who get vaccinated, the faster we will defeat the COVID-19 pandemic and rebuild a new and better state and economy for everyone," Cuomo said. "That's why it's critical for us to make the vaccine as accessible as possible and provide more opportunities for New Yorkers to get vaccinated. This new accommodation means any eligible adult will be able to walk into any mass vaccination site and walk out with a shot in arm, eliminating the need to make an appointment online or by phone. We'll continue to work 24/7 to get the vaccine to communities across the state so everyone can benefit."

Of course, appointments can still be made for those who prefer to schedule their shots. Vaccine availability varies by location. Vaccines are currently being distributed in state-run facilities, county-run facilities, and private facilities such as hospitals and pharmacies. For a list of sites near you, visit your local county website.

The vaccine is currently available to every New Yorker over the age of 16, free of charge.