Business & Tech

CVS Adds 34 Vaccination Sites Across Massachusetts

The pharmacy chain is now administering the coronavirus vaccine in 85 locations throughout the state.

CVS pharmacy has expanded where it will administer COVID-19 vaccines.
CVS pharmacy has expanded where it will administer COVID-19 vaccines. (Scott Eisen/CVS Health via AP Images (PRNewsfoto/CVS Health))

CVS has added nearly three dozen pharmacy locations to the list of those administering the coronavirus vaccine in Massachusetts. The 34 new sites bring the total number of locations offering the vaccine to 85 across the state.

CVS is not releasing details of which stores will offer the vaccine. A spokesperson cited a limited supply and desire to keep stores from being "overwhelmed by those who may seek a vaccination without making an appointment."

Participating CVS locations will be in Bristol, Essex, Hampden, Middlesex, Norfolk, Suffolk, Plymouth and Worcester counties.

Find out what's happening in Bostonfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Appointments for the new locations will become available Saturday. Vaccinations are by appointment only. Those eligible can create a CVS account and use the online scheduling tool to find a location closest to them. People can also call 800-746-7287.

Residents also may be able to secure an appointment at one of the temporary sites CVS is running to deliver a small supply of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine.

Find out what's happening in Bostonfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Every location was booked solid on the CVS website as of Thursday morning.

The supply for the expanded rollout is from the Federal Retail Pharmacy Program.

"We're proud to play a part in increasing access to the vaccine to as many people as possible to enable reopening efforts in the communities we serve," said CVS President and CVS Health Executive Vice President Neela Montgomery said in a release.

CVS has already been administering vaccinations to teachers and school staff in Massachusetts. Thursday was the first day that the group could book appointments at other vaccination sites across Massachusetts.

Thursday is also the final day people had to jockey for open appointments on the state's vaccination finder website. Beginning Friday residents will be able to pre-register for appointments and be contacted when a spot has opened up.

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