BURLINGTON, Vt. (AP) — Vermont opened appointments Thursday so people with pre-existing health conditions can be vaccinated against COVID-19.

The opening came four days earlier than expected because fewer people in the 55-64 age group signed up than had been expected.

People who are now eligible for the vaccine include people who are suffering from cancer; certain lung diseases; heart, chronic kidney, and sickle cell diseases; diabetes; severe obesity; Down Syndrome and other disabilities; and women who are pregnant.

full list can be found on the website of the Vermont Health Department.

People do not need a doctor’s note or proof of a health condition to sign up. You will be asked for information about a health care provider, but people who do not have a health care provider will still be able to sign up.

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