August COVID-19 Update

As of last week, 9.39 million vaccine doses have been administered across the Commonwealth and almost 64% of the population has been fully vaccinated against COVID-19, according to the Department of Public Health. This is a historic feat that would not have been possible without the collaboration of our public health officials on the state and local level and the dedication of our frontline health care workers.

We have come such a long way since this time last year in overcoming this crisis, but it is important that we continue to keep public health in mind and minimize the potential spread of COVID and its variants. The biggest step you can take to contribute to these efforts and help “stop the spread” is getting vaccinated.

Receiving the voluntary COVID-19 vaccine has been shown to be highly effective at preventing illness with minimal, if any, side effects, and it is an important tool in the fight against the pandemic.​ All three manufactured vaccines have been approved by the CDC for use by individuals 12 years or older and strongly recommended for those looking to return to everyday activities.

You can continue to find information regarding COVID-19, including case data, vaccination data reports, and state public health guidance at mass.gov/covid19. While the State House is closed to the public, my office continues to operate remotely. The best way to reach me or my staff at this busy time is via email at carolyn.dykema@mahouse.gov. We are also available by phone if necessary at 617-722-2680. 

How to get vaccinated

Where can I get vaccinated?

There are many vaccine sites nearby with appointment availability that you can find at vaxfinder.mass.gov, and many pharmacies offer walk-in service as well.

Who is eligible?

All Massachusetts residents over the age of 12 are eligible to receive the vaccine at no cost, and once you get vaccinated, you can sign up for the “Vax Millions Giveaway” at vaxmillionsgiveaway.com.

What if I can’t go to a vax site?

If getting to a vaccine location is a challenge, you can now also schedule an in-home vaccination by phone at (833) 983-0485 (call hours Mon-Fri 9am-5pm). More information on the in-home vaccination program can be found online here.

Questions?

If you continue to have questions or concerns about the safety, efficacy, or science behind the COVID-19 vaccines, I encourage you to visit this information page maintained by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health which contains helpful, science-based answers to frequently-asked questions.

Face Covering Advisory

Effective July 30, The Department of Public Health has issued a new mask advisory in light of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s updated guidance:

• Fully vaccinated individuals are advised to wear a mask or face covering when indoors (and not in your own home) if you have a weakened immune system, or if you are at increased risk for severe disease because of your age or an underlying medical condition, or if someone in your household has a weakened immune system, is at increased risk for severe disease, or is an unvaccinated adult.
• DPH advises all unvaccinated residents to continue to wear masks in indoor settings and when they can’t socially distance.
• Masks are still mandatory for all individuals on public and private transportation systems (including rideshares, livery, taxi, ferries, MBTA, Commuter Rail and transportation stations), in healthcare facilities and in other settings hosting vulnerable populations, such as congregate care settings.

More information on current and updated mask guidance can be found on the DPH website.