DEDHAM — In an effort to continue to update Dedham residents on state and local preparedness efforts and impacts related to COVID-19 (commonly referred to as Coronavirus), the Dedham Board of Health offers the following updates:
January 27, 2021
The Board met and discussed Phase II of the COVID Vaccine which begins on Monday, February 1, 2021. The first group in Phase II are those residents 75 years of age or older.
The Board voted that, consistent with M.G.L. Ch. 111 Sections 122 to 125 and such additional authority as may be granted in sections 95-105, the Board moves to approve the holding of a COVID19 Vaccine Clinic for ages 75+ on Saturday, February 6, 2021 from 9 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Dedham Middle School, 70 Whiting Avenue, with the appropriate COVID19 protocols in place, and provided further that any deviation from this approval shall be reported forthwith to the Chair of the Board of Health and may require additional action by the Board of Health.
The Town has received 300 doses of the vaccine, and clinic registration is on a first come first serve basis. Residents may call 781-751-9495 to begin the registration process.
For additional COVID-19 vaccination information specific to the Town of Dedham, please visit the Town of Dedham COVID-19 Vaccination Clinic Page at www.dedham-ma.gov/departments/covid-19-vaccine-clinics.
For COVID-19 vaccination information at other locations throughout the State, please visit www.mass.gov/info-details/when-can-i-get-the-covid-19-vaccine.
Assistance
The Board acknowledged that there is a growing population suffering from depression and other mental health issues. “People are tired, frustrated, angry and lonely.” If you are suffering, please reach out. Talk to someone! There are people who can help!
Available assistance; Samaritan Crisis Hotline (1-877-870-4673), or Text HOME to 741741.
Compliance
The COVID compliance inspector continues to work with businesses to provide support and review guidelines throughout the ever-changing directives from the state.
Testing Sites
STOP THE SPREAD COVID TESTING SITES remain open throughout the Commonwealth. For specific information on site locations, please visit www.mass.gov/COVID19
Question & Answer
As promised, the Board has added new frequently asked questions. We continue to encourage residents to submit questions and concerns to the Board at dedhamboardofhealth@dedham-ma.gov
Q. How many COVID vaccines will the Town receive?
A. Unfortunately, a specific number of vaccine is not and will not be assigned to Dedham or any community. The Town files a request for the maximum allotment of vaccine on a weekly basis. It is unknown how much vaccine will be allocated, however it is expected it will not be the full amount requested.
Q. Should we be concerned that the second dose of vaccine will be available in a timely manner?
A. Although there has been much conversation about this concern, all indications are that second doses will be available within the prescribed time frame.
Q. After receiving the first vaccine, does one need to continue wearing a mask?
A. Absolutely, yes! Maximum efficacy is not achieved until two weeks after receipt of the second dose. We urge everyone to continue wearing masks even after their second dose.
Confirmed Cases
The confirmed case count as of January 27, 2021 is 1719, an increase of 144 cases from last report. Please note, this number reflects the total number of cases confirmed since March 2020. Please be advised that this number is not indicative of any detected cluster in the community.
The continued increase in confirmed cases in Dedham and across the Commonwealth reminds us of the importance of being vigilant. The Board urges everyone to
WEAR A MASK AT ALL TIMES
STAY SIX FEET APART
WASH YOUR HANDS
It is our hope that we are beginning to turn the corner in the battle against COVID19. Your continued cooperation in following the prescribed protocols will move us closer to winning the war!
Keep the faith! We’ve got this, Dedham!
Resources
Residents are encouraged to visit the website, dedhamcovid19.com, for all town updates as the COVID-19 situation develops. Visitors can subscribe via email to receive notifications for new posts.
Although Town Hall remains closed to the public, the Health Department is
staffed and available to address all questions and concerns. We encourage
residents and businesses to contact the office at 781-751-9220 with any
questions or concerns. The Board most respectfully asks for your patience
and understanding of the demands on the Department. All inquiries and
complaints are important and will be addressed. Please remain kind and
respectful!
The Board appreciates the continued collaboration with all Town departments in assisting residents and businesses adapt to the new normal.
The Board again wishes to remind the public to properly dispose of gloves and masks at all public locations.
The Board wishes to thank the Health Department staff for their continued dedication during these unprecedented times.
Stay safe and be kind!
Respectfully submitted by the Board of Health
Leanne Jasset, Chairman
Kathy Reda, Vice-Chairman
Mary Ellard, Member
