'Vax Express' To Bring Shots To Towns With Low Vaccination Rates

MASSACHUSETTS — Coronavirus vaccinations will soon be available on rails in Massachusetts, with the inaugural run Wednesday of the "Vax Express."

The MBTA is turning over a commuter rail train to CIC Health, a partner in the state's vaccination program, to bring the Pfizer and Johnson & Johnson vaccines to five communities with low vaccination rates.

While Massachusetts has over two-thirds of the population at least partially vaccinated, trailing only Vermont among U.S. states, not all its 351 cities and towns are doing as well.

Whereas a handful of towns are over 90 percent vaccinated, at least 100 Massachusetts communities are less than 60 percent partially vaccinated, according to data released by the state Thursday.

They include Lawrence, Lowell, Fitchburg and Worcester, four of the five cities where the "Vax Express" will be making stops. The train will also visit Mattapan, North Station and South Station in Boston.

“The Commonwealth continues to lead the nation in vaccinating our residents, and our goal remains getting every person who wants a vaccine a shot,” Gov. Charlie Baker said in a statement. “As we get closer to our goal of vaccinating over 4 million residents, we are increasing targeted, community-based clinics to reach remaining populations.”

As of Friday, 3.9 million residents are fully vaccinated and over 600,000 more have received a first dose of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine.

Vax Express vaccinations will take place on the train at the local stations. The Pfizer vaccine will be offered to those 12 and up and the single-dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine to those 18 and older.

Appointments are not required, but you can reserve a spot here, according to the following schedule:

Wed. June 16

• Blue Hill Ave 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
• South Station 3 p.m. - 7 p.m.

Thurs. June 17

• Worcester Station 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Fri. June 18

• Lowell Station 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
• North Station 3 p.m.- 7 p.m.

Sat. June 19

• Lawrence Station 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Sun. June 20

• Fitchburg Station 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

The Vax Express will return to the same stations July 7 to 11 for the second round of shots.