Darien Expects To Begin Coronavirus Vaccinations In January

DARIEN, CT — The Darien Health Department expects to begin coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccinations in January under the state's guidelines for initial eligibility, officials announced.

Connecticut is in the initial stages of its vaccine rollout, which state officials expect to complete in January or early February before beginning the next phase.

Under the first phase, those eligible for vaccinations are health care personnel, long-term care facility residents, and first responders at risk of exposure to the virus, according to Darien Health Director David Knauf.

"The Town of Darien expects to begin vaccinating eligible persons... during the first week of January," Knauf said. "All vaccinations will be by appointment only and arranged through an online portal. Long term care facility residents in Darien will have their vaccine administered by arrangement with CVS Pharmacy."

By definition, health care personnel includes "All paid and unpaid persons serving in healthcare settings who have the potential for direct or indirect exposure to patients of infectious materials."

Those in long-term care facilities are "Adults who reside in facilities that provide a range of
services, including medical and personal care, to persons who are unable to live independently."

The first responders considered to be at risk of exposure to the virus are those who respond to medical emergencies, such as emergency medical technicians, police personnel, and firefighters.

State officials continue planning for future phases, as do Darien officials, who will announce vaccine availability in the coming weeks and months. Residents also are urged to sign up for the town's CODE RED messages at https://public.coderedweb.com/CNE/en-US/6AB0EACFCCDD.

For information on vaccines, visit: https://portal.ct.gov/Coronavirus/COVID-19-Vaccinations---FAQs

For information on eligibility and the timeline for vaccine eligibility, visit: https://portal.ct.gov/Coronavirus/COVID-19-Vaccination---Phases