COVID-19 Vaccine Registration Begins Today for Category 1b

COVID Vaccine:

The State of Connecticut has officially announced that COVID-19 vaccine registration can begin today, Monday, January 18 for those in Category 1b.  The State has also expanded the eligibility criteria for the 1b category, although those in the expanded category will not be able to register on Monday. 

Many Westporters have already begun registering themselves into the Department of Public Health’s Vaccine Administration Management System (VAMS).  Some have done so easily and await the ability to schedule their appointment.  Others struggle with the technology and the registration requirements.  Knowing this, the State has launched its official helpline for registration by phone.  Be aware that this line is in high demand, with very long wait times.  This is a State-led program and supplies within the State are limited to what is given to CT from the Federal government.  As such there are limitations to the distribution and we all must remain patient and vigilant as this program unfolds. 

The 1b category includes those who are 75 years and older, residents and staff living in congregate settings and some essential workers.  The revised category will also include those over 65 and others with underlying health complications.  That revision will not take place for a couple of weeks since Governor Lamont had announced that the State will be prioritizing the most vulnerable population first. Many who qualified under 1a and 1b have begun to be vaccinated.  Second dose shots began last week.  This is all hopeful news that many of us are eager to hear.  You should not be discouraged as complications and delays occur.  In the meantime, remain vigilant, wear a face covering, social distance and maintain good hygiene and sanitation.  Your patience is needed during these times, but relief is underway.

I have included a message from the Westport Weston Health District which spells out the details of the State’s plans and registration process and provides useful contact information.

Message from the Westport Weston Health District

On January 14, Governor Lamont announced that phase 1b of Connecticut’s COVID-19 vaccine rollout will begin today, January 18, 2021, and residents in the state over the age of 75 can now schedule appointments to receive the vaccine.

Individuals included in 1a rollout:

• Healthcare Personnel: All paid and unpaid persons serving in healthcare settings who have the potential for direct or indirect exposure to patients of infectious materials.
• Long Term Care Facility Residents: Adults who reside in facilities that provide a range of services, including medical and personal care, to persons who are unable to live independently.
• First Responders at risk of exposure to COVID-19 through their response to medical emergencies such as Emergency Medical Technicians, Police, and Fire.

  Individuals included in phase 1b:

• Individuals 75 and older are able to register on Monday

To register:

All eligible residents are required to make an appointment in advance of receiving the vaccine. Individuals over the age of 75 can make appointments utilizing the following tools:

• Healthcare Provider – Many residents have already been or will be contacted to schedule an appointment by their healthcare provider if their provider is participating in the state’s vaccine program. Not all providers are administering the vaccine. A list of participating providers is available at ct.gov/covidvaccine. Residents are urged not to contact their physician or healthcare provider directly for COVID vaccine appointments.
• Online – A form can be accessed online at ct.gov/covidvaccine that allows individuals to schedule an appointment through the web-based Vaccine Administration Management System (VAMS)
• Telephone – Those without internet access can call Connecticut’s COVID Vaccine Appointment Assistance Line at 877-918-2224. The phone system was created in partnership with the Department of Public Health and United Way of Connecticut and is specifically targeted to provide support for eligible vaccine recipients who have limited technology access, or who have language, disability, or other barriers that could prevent them from using existing self-scheduling options successfully. The line will take calls on Mondays through Fridays from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and will offer a call-back option when all contact specialists are busy serving other callers. The team will aim to return calls as soon as possible, with the goal of same-day response.