Health Minister Jens Spahn has said the priority order for the AstraZeneca vaccine will be lifted so that all adults can apply for it across the country if they want it, write THE LOCAL.

Some states, including Berlin, Bavaria, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania and Saxony, have already been allowing everyone over the age of 18 to apply for an AstraZeneca jab.

Spahn pushed for all 16 states to allow residents to get this vaccine if they want it. This is a move away from the strict priority list which shows who is allowed to book an appointment first.

The order is based on recommendations by the STIKO vaccination committee and focuses mainly on age, health conditions and jobs.

Officially, Germany recommends that only over 60s receive this vaccine due to risks connected with very rare blood clot conditions. However, adults of any age can request the vaccine and be given it after a detailed consultation with a doctor.