Frontline Workers Get Coronavirus Vaccine In Vernon

VERNON, CT — The town of Vernon and the North Central District Health Department hosted a

coronavirus vaccination clinic Friday at the Vernon Fire Station for healthcare workers and first responders.

They were eligible to be vaccinated under Phase 1A of state vaccination guidelines.

The clinic was by appointment only and no walk-ins were accepted.

"Vernon has made significant progress in vaccinating our medical first responders which include our EMTs, firefighters, police officers, and school nurses," Vernon Mayor Dan Champagne said. "We have also facilitated the vaccination of healthcare professionals in our community. Protecting these frontline workers who serve the public is mission critical."

The gradual roll out of the COVID-19 vaccine is governed by the state Department of Public Health and the Governor's Office.

"We are pleased to partner with Vernon in making the vaccine available to first responders and medical workers who qualify," said Patrice Sulik, the district Director of Health. "We are working with all of our member towns to vaccinate eligible individuals and as more vaccine becomes available, we will be working closely with our community partners to reach all who want to be vaccinated."

Those vaccinated at Friday’s clinic received the Moderna vaccine.

"Today’s vaccination clinic is the first of many we will host here in Vernon," said Michael Purcaro, Vernon’s town administrator and director of emergency and risk management. "Vernon’s partnership with the local Health District and Eastern Connecticut Health Network has enabled us to move quickly and efficiently.

"Once we receive state approval to expand our program, we are ready to get this life-saving vaccine into the arms of people who need and want it."

The North Central District Health Department has been administering vaccinations since receiving its initial allocation on Dec, 23 and is now ramping up its vaccination efforts.

“"As more COVID-19 vaccine arrives and the vaccination process accelerates, the NCDHD stands ready to serve in any and all capacities," said Diane Wheelock, the chairwoman of the health district’s board. "We serve a large geographic area and our priority is protecting as many people as we can as soon as we can."

The North Central District Health Department serves the Towns of Vernon, Enfield, Suffield, East Windsor, Windham, Windsor Locks, Ellington and Stafford.