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Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates funded medical research and vaccination programs through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and has often pronounced about its belief in the efficacy of the COVID-19 vaccine. Friday it was his turn to get one. Gates tweeted a photo of himself – glasses off, sleeve rolled up – and received the first of his two coronavirus shots. He thanks those who helped develop and distribute the vaccine and notes that he feels good.
“One of the benefits of 65 is that I am eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine,” Gates wrote. “I got my first dose this week, and I feel great. Thank you so much to all the scientists, trial participants, regulators and frontline health workers who have reached us so far.”
One of the benefits of 65 is that I am eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine. I got my first dose this week, and I feel great. Thank you to all the scientists, trial participants, regulators and health professionals in the front line who have reached us so far. pic.twitter.com/67SIfrG1Yd
– Bill Gates (@BillGates) 22 January 2021
Gates lives in Washington state, which currently provides the vaccine to anyone 65 years of age or older, plus other people who qualify for a variety of reasons, including health workers and first responders. Gates turned 65 on Oct. 28, so he just made the cut.
Late last year, Gates urged Americans to wear masks and go social distance while waiting to receive the vaccine, and expressed his faith that all the vaccines developed will work well.
On Inauguration day Wednesday, Gates said he was looking forward to works with President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris on issues such as climate change and COVID-19.
“It’s been a tough time in America, but I see promise in the months and years ahead,” Gates said.
Other famous people, including then-elected President Biden an actor Ian McKellen, also shared photos of themselves getting the vaccine and encouraged others to do so if possible.