Our Residents
COVID-19 VACCINE – IMPORTANT INFORMATION!
The COVID-19 vaccine is being administered at locations across Massachusetts, including three in Springfield.
Here is some important information you need to know in order to receive the vaccine:
WHO – The vaccine is now being offered to health care workers, nursing home residents and those aged 65 and older, residents and staff of low-income and affordable senior housing including Springfield Housing Authority residents, and individuals with two or more health conditions that put them at higher risk from COVID-19. Call your doctor if you have any concerns about your suitability for the vaccine.
WHERE – The COVID-19 vaccination is available at the Eastfield Mall, 1655 Boston Road (website https://curative.com/sites/24182#9/42.1408/-72.4864), at the Springfield CVS at 1242 Parker Street (website https://www.cvs.com/immunizations/covid-19-vaccine), and at the Springfield Big Y at 300 Cooley St. (website https://www.bigy.com/Pharmacy/covid19-vaccine-faq). Applications for appointments must be submitted online.
HOW – You must go online to complete the application and get an appointment. You will need two doses of the shot, given wither 21 days apart for the Phizer vaccine, or 28 days apart for the Moderna. IF YOU NEED HELP NAVIGATING THE ONLINE APPLICATION, or IF YOU NEED TRANSPORTATION to get your vaccine, contact your neighborhood library branch: East Forest Park Branch, 413-263-6836; Forest Park Branch, 413-263-6843; East Springfield Branch, 413-263-6840; Brightwood Branch, 413-263-6805; Central Branch, 413-263-6828 ext. 215; Indian Orchard Branch, 413-263-6846; Mason Square Branch, 413-263-6853; Sixteen Acres Branch, 413-263-6858. You may also call United Way’s 24-7 hotline by dialing 211.
WHY – There are important reasons to get vaccinated for COVID-19. The pandemic has had a far-ranging impact around the world, including closed schools, and limited access to businesses and government offices. The more people who get vaccinated, the sooner the pandemic’s impact will be greatly reduced.
COST – The COVID-19 vaccines available – Phizer and Moderna – are being offered at no charge, though insurance information will be needed.
SAFETY CONCERNS – Both Phizer and Moderna vaccines have been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for emergency use, meaning their impact on overall health is being studied as they are administered. To date, both vaccines have proven remarkably effective, with a greater than 94% to 95% rate of protection against COVID-19, with minor side effects for most people. The vaccine can cause a short fever, headache, fatigue, sore arm or chills, especially after the second dose. If you are uncertain due to health concerns, contact your physician before receiving the vaccine.
