The CDC now recommends everyone ages 5 and older get a COVID-19 vaccine to help protect against COVID-19. On November 2nd, it gave emergency use approval for kids 5-11 years old to receive the Pfizer vaccine based on a careful review of clinical trial data that showed strong efficacy and safety. Read more.
COVID-19 Booster
Johnson & Johnson, Moderna, and Pfizer COVID-19 boosters are available now. The boosters are free, safe, & effective. You can chose any type of vaccine for your booster shot. Learn more.
Webinar Recording Available
Watch the recording and view presenter slides from the 11/21/21 webinar on What you Need to Know about the COVID Boosters and Vaccine for Younger Kids. Dr. Chrystal Wittcopp, Medical Director of Baystate General Pediatrics, presented valuable information about the booster shots and the newly approved vaccine for kids 5-11 years old.
We are working on answering the questions that we were unable to address during the presentation. Once available, they will be posted here.
You should get tested if you develop any symptoms of COVID-19, even if they are mild, or if you are a close contact of someone who has tested positive for COVID-19.
Find a COVID-19 test near you: Testing for COVID-19 is widely available in Massachusetts. Search for test sites and learn about home testing.
Anyone 5 and older can now receive the COVID-19 Vaccine. People age 5-17 can receive the Pfizer vaccine. People age 18 and older can receive any vaccine. The vaccine is FREE!
COVID-19 Vaccine Finder: Search for appointments at pharmacies, health care providers, and other community locations. Appointment availability is updated daily. Some local vaccination sites may only be open to residents of select town. Check listing to see if the site is restricted.
Vaccine scheduling help lines: Baystate Health has compiled information about local contacts that offer assistance with vaccine scheduling.
Homebound Vaccination Program: Any individual who has trouble getting to a vaccine site is eligible for the homebound program.
Data to Policy Action
The Public Health Institute of Western Massachusetts provides skills, expertise and experience to create successful public health campaigns and sustainable system changes to improve health and well-being in Western MA. Join our team as we work to ensure that all people in our region have what they need to lead healthy lives.
