East Hartford Continues to Closely Monitor the COVID-19 Pandemic: Vaccinations Strongly Recommended
East Hartford, CT—The Town of East Hartford is closely monitoring the COVID-19 pandemic as we continue to see case numbers increasing sharply throughout the state.
“East Hartford’s average daily case rate has remained at approximately 11 per 100,000 Town population and a lab positive rate of 3.5%. However, it’s possible the town will experience a similar increase in transmission that will require returning to a mask mandate within the next several weeks for all Town facilities”, said Mayor Mike Walsh. “If a mask mandate is implemented, local businesses and organizations will be strongly encouraged to implement a masking policy for indoor spaces to reduce the risk of transmission among employees and customers.”
A Town facility mask mandate will be implemented for all persons regardless of vaccination status if our average daily case rate or percent of lab positive results reaches a high-level of community transmission. Individuals are still advised to wear a mask in indoor settings if they are not fully vaccinated, or if they are fully vaccinated and may be more vulnerable due to a weakened immune system.
In addition to following mask guidelines, washing your hands and keeping your distance, it is important to protect your family members and friends by being fully vaccinated against COVID-19. High rates of vaccination help reduce the risk of transmission and of severe illness resulting in hospitalization or death. Achieving high rates of vaccination is especially important to protect very young children that are not yet eligible for vaccination, and our most vulnerable residents.
“We continue to see a great response from East Hartford residents five years of age and older where 76 percent have received at least one COVID-19 vaccine,” said Laurence Burnsed, Director of Health. “However, it is essential for all eligible individuals 18 years of age and older to get a booster shot based on recent studies that suggest vaccination becomes less effective over time.”
Adults are eligible for a booster if it has been at least six months since your second shot of Pfizer or Moderna, or at least two months since receiving the Johnson & Johnson vaccine.
The Town of East Hartford and area providers continue to offer free and accessible COVID-19 clinics throughout town, including those for children 5 years of age and older. Please continue to monitor the town website www.easthartfordct.gov/health-and-social-services/news/covid-19-vaccination-information and social media www.facebook.com/townofeasthartford for a schedule of upcoming clinics and providers offering vaccinations.