Redding Update
February 21, 2021
With cautious optimism we’re noting favorable indicators reported by the CT Department of Public Health (DPH). The data for the first two weeks of February indicate the rate of COVID-19 cases per 100,000 in Redding is at 7.8, which is much lower than the 58 per 100,000 experienced in mid-January. And likewise Redding’s most recent average positivity rate is 1.8% (it was 5.9%) with Connecticut’s current rate in the 2% range. Hospitalizations are down and the number of nursing home cases has dropped from 483 to 30. The nursing home data alone indicates the vaccine is effective. Even with this favorable news we MUST continue to wear a mask and social distance from others. COVID variants have been identified in the state and are still an issue.
Redding/Bethel Clinics
Redding and Bethel have starting vaccinating those who are 65 and older. Those who are 75+ who would like to be vaccinated can call the Redding Human Services Department at 203-938-9725. Redding’s partnership with Bethel continues and most concur that their clinic facility is ideal.
For vaccination scheduling Redding has been systematically emailing and calling those who have pre-registered on the Town of Redding Website https://townofreddingct.org/government/services/health-department/covid-19-vaccine-pre-registration/ Please note that if you have already pre-registered, there is no need to register again. We will get to everyone.
We are starting to schedule first dose clinics at the Redding Community Center. These clinics are by appointment only for everyone’s safety and to match the number of doses we’ve been allotted with the number of appointments we make. Walk-in vaccinations are not available. Only those with an appointment will be permitted in. The Department of Public Health allots and distributes a first and second dose for each person being vaccinated. The location where you obtained your first dose is the location where you will receive your second dose.
Other Opportunities
We continue to encourage all who are eligible to sign up for all vaccination options available, including registering in VAMS https://dphsubmissions.ct.gov/OnlineVaccine. Many have received vaccinations through VAMS at hospitals and with other providers such as the Ridgefield Visiting Nurse Association. The CT Department of Public Health is increasing vaccine distribution to select locations of CVS, Walgreens, and Walmart. On top of that the federal government announced it will soon be distributing vaccine directly to those pharmacies as supply becomes more available.
If you’ve had trouble getting through to make an appointment United Way has partnered with the CT Department of Public Health to expand availability and access to vaccine scheduling through the state’s Vaccine Appointment Assist Line. Contact Specialists are available to schedule vaccine appointments from 8am-8pm, seven days a week. The number to call is 877-918-2224.
Sports
Governor Lamont stated that:
• Competitive cheerleading and dance will be allowed with precautions starting on March 19.
• Youth athletic event spectators will increase to 25% capacity, with a 200 person cap starting March 19.
• Interstate athletic competitions will be allowed as of March 1st.
Doug Hartline, RS, Health Officer
Dr. Lawrence Leibowitz, Director of Health
