A Message From The Dedham Board Of Health

Press release from the Town of Dedham:

March 22, 2021

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:

March 17, 2021

The Board did not meet this week, however has been closely following the announcements from Governor Baker, particularly the announcement related to COVID vaccine eligibility. Please see below:

The timeline for the remaining groups is:

• March 22nd: Residents 60+ and certain workers

• April 5th: Residents 55+ and residents with one certain medical condition

• April 19th: General public ages 16 years of age and older

Additional vaccine updates can be found in the press release here.

Unfortunately, there is no change in the restriction to vaccine access for local Boards of Health. We continue to advocate and hope that the state will consider providing vaccine to the community so we can schedule clinics for our residents. We will provide updates if, and when, additional vaccine becomes available to the community.

March 20, 2021 COVID Vaccine Clinic

The Health Department has scheduled second dose appointments for those who received their first dose vaccine on February 18, 2021. The clinic will be held on Saturday, March 20, 2021 from 9 a.m. to 12 noon at the Dedham Middle School.

The Board wishes to thank the Health Department and Council on Aging staff, our Assistant Town Manager, the School Department and custodial staff, the Dedham Middle School staff, the Police Department, the Public Works Department, Fallon Ambulance, and our many volunteers for their continued efforts in planning for and conducting the vaccine clinics. A special thank you to the seniors who have attended the clinics.

Mass Vaccination Sites

The Governor’s Office is encouraging those who qualify for the COVID vaccine to visit the state’s website and to register and/or schedule an appointment at one of the Mass Vaccination Sites. Please visit www.mass.gov/info-details/when-can-i-get-the-covid-19-vaccine for additional information.

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

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.

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. Regarding the travel order and the exemption of fully vaccinated individuals – does someone need to have completed the vaccination series 14 days before leaving on a trip outside of MA or 14 days before they return to MA after going on a trip?

A. A person needs to have completed their vaccination series at least 14 days before travelling. Example: Someone who travelled 7 days after completing their vaccine series and then returned 14 days after completing the series still must quarantine or produce a negative test.

Q. Since the Governor has changed the guidelines for everyone to be eligible for a COVID vaccine after April 19th, will the Town be holding more vaccine clinics?

A. The state has stopped supplying local Boards of Health with vaccine at this time. In the event the state resumes distribution of vaccine to local Boards of Health, we will schedule clinics to assist in vaccinating the community.

Q. What are some of the most common side effects of the COVID vaccine?

A. You may have a sore arm, body aches, fatigue, headache or fever for a few days after getting the vaccine. These symptoms are a sign that your immune system is learning how to protect you from the virus. If symptoms are more severe or persist longer than a few days, please reach out to your doctor or medical professional.

Confirmed Cases
The confirmed case count as of March 17, 2021 is 2156, an increase of 27 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.

While many have received the vaccine, it is important to continue to be 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

This press release was produced by the Town of Dedham. The views expressed here are the author’s own.