The Milford Health Department is partnering with the state Department of Public Health to provide COVID-19 vaccines as they are available in accordance with state guidelines.
The MHD has held seven COVID-19 vaccination clinics at the Parsons Government Complex gymnasium since December when vaccine distribution began in Connecticut. MHD vaccine clinics operate on Wednesdays all day and Friday afternoons with registration through the Vaccine Administration Management System.
To increase access to COVID-19 vaccine locally, the Yale New Haven Health System will use the gymnasium on days when the MHD is not operating its clinic.
“The supply of vaccine at this time does not meet the demand, so it will take time for everyone to be vaccinated,” said Milford Mayor Ben Blake. “As the state expands eligibility for individuals, particularly seniors and other vulnerable populations, the City of Milford wants to make sure that those most at risk for serious complications from COVID-19 do not have to travel far to get access to the vaccine as it becomes available.”
To receive a COVID-19 vaccine through the MHD, individuals must make an appointment by registering in the Vaccine Administration Management System. To find out more information about how to use VAMS go to https://portal.ct.gov/Coronavirus/COVID-19-Vaccinations—VAMS-Support or visit the MHD website. To make an appointment through the Yale New Haven Health System, visit https://covidvaccine.ynhh.org/.
“The Health Department already transformed the gym into a clinic with the help of the Department of Public Works, so it seems like a natural partnership for the hospital to use the existing set-up to expand access,” said Deepa Joseph, MHD’s director of health. “We are thrilled to be part of this valuable strategy to conquer this pandemic by delivering these vital vaccines to Milford residents and those in surrounding communities.”
Joseph added that the MHD is prepared to vaccinate more residents as the vaccine rollout progresses.
According to state guidelines for vaccine distribution, while Phase 1b opened on Jan. 18 for individuals age 75 and older. The next group that will be eligible is individuals between the ages of 65 and 74; that date has not been determined.