A Message From The Board Of Health Town Of Dedham

Press release from the Town of Dedham:

March 26, 2021

DEDHAM, MASS. — 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 25, 2021

The Board met this date and welcomed new Health Director, Kylee Sullivan. Kylee comes to us from her previous position with the Arlington Health and Human Services Department, and a wealth of knowledge in the field of Public Health. We are excited to have Kylee join our team and look forward to working together to keep Dedham safe.

As of Monday, March 22, 2021, residents 60 years of age and older and certain workers became eligible to receive the vaccine. On April 5, 2021, residents 55+ and residents with one certain medical condition and on April 19, 2021, the general public 16 years of age and older will be eligible for the vaccine.

We are all looking forward to April 19, when the opportunity for all residents to be eligible for the vaccine. While it is important to continue to wear a mask, practice social distancing and use proper hygiene, the opportunity to vaccinate the general public will bring us closer to our normal way of life.

Gail Kelley, Director of Health Services for the Dedham Public Schools, was present to discuss with the Board a proposed update to the School Department’s Travel Policy and the recent recommendation from the CDC of the 3 foot distance between students in the classroom.

March 20, 2021 COVID Vaccine Clinic

The Health Department held another successful second dose COVID-19 Vaccine Clinic for those who received their first dose vaccine on February 18, 2021.

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-19 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-19 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 [email protected]

Q. Are the COVID-19 vaccines safe?

A. Even though the coronavirus vaccines were developed more quickly than other vaccines in the past, they have been carefully tested and continue to be monitored. The U.S. vaccine safety system works to make sure that all vaccines are as safe as possible. Safety has been a top priority as federal agencies work with vaccine manufacturers to develop and authorize a COVID-19 vaccine. (according to Johns Hopkins Medicine)

Q. After getting a COVID-19 vaccine, will I test positive for COVID-19 on a viral test?

A. No. Neither the recently authorized and recommended vaccines nor the other COVID-19 vaccines currently in clinical trials in the United States can cause you to test positive on viral tests, which are used to see if you have a current infection.

If your body develops an immune response—the goal of vaccination—there is a possibility you may test positive on some antibody tests. Antibody tests indicate you had a previous infection and that you may have some level of protection against the virus. Experts are currently looking at how COVID-19 vaccination may affect antibody testing results. (according to CDC)

Q. Can I get vaccinated for COVID-19 while I am currently sick with COVID-19

A. No. People with COVID-19 who have symptoms should wait to be vaccinated until they have recovered from their illness and have met the criteria for discontinuing isolation; those without symptoms should also wait until they meet the criteria before getting vaccinated. This guidance also applies to people who get COVID-19 before getting their second dose of vaccine (according to the CDC).

Confirmed Cases

The confirmed case count as of March 25, 2021 is 2233, an increase of 77 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 COVID-19. 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.