One hundred and thirty five (135) Additional Positive Cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since May 20, 2022, bringing the cumulative total to 8,308.

On May 20, 2022 the Shrewsbury Board of Health issued a mask advisory due to a surge in positive COVID-19 cases. The full advisory can be found here. For information regarding masks and face coverings, please refer to CDC guidance linked here. The Shrewsbury Board of Health order to require employers to report COVID-19 cases in the workplace will remain in place until further notice. Click the link here for more information.

💉Vaccine Info: All residents 5+ who live, work, or study in Massachusetts can now be vaccinated. People ages 5-17 can only get the Pfizer vaccine. People age 18 and older can get any vaccine. All residents 18+ are now eligible for Moderna booster shot, and 12+ are eligible for a Pfizer booster shot, 6 months after receiving the second dose of a Moderna or Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. All residents 18+ who received a single dose of the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine are eligible for a Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 booster shot. 

Click the link for the press release. 

One hundred and sixty three (163) Additional Positive Cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since May 13, 2022, bringing the cumulative total to 8,173.

On May 20, 2022 the Shrewsbury Board of Health issued a mask advisory due to a surge in positive COVID-19 cases. The full advisory can be found here. For information regarding masks and face coverings, please refer to CDC guidance linked here. The Shrewsbury Board of Health order to require employers to report COVID-19 cases in the workplace will remain in place until further notice. Click the link here for more information.

💉Vaccine Info: All residents 5+ who live, work, or study in Massachusetts can now be vaccinated. People ages 5-17 can only get the Pfizer vaccine. People age 18 and older can get any vaccine. All residents 18+ are now eligible for Moderna booster shot, and 12+ are eligible for a Pfizer booster shot, 6 months after receiving the second dose of a Moderna or Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. All residents 18+ who received a single dose of the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine are eligible for a Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 booster shot. 

Click the link for the press release. 

One hundred and eighty six (186) Additional Positive Cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since May 6, 2022, bringing the cumulative total to 8,010.

For information regarding masks and face coverings, please refer to CDC guidance linked here. The Shrewsbury Board of Health order to require employers to report COVID-19 cases in the workplace will remain in place until further notice. Click the link here for more information.

💉Vaccine Info: All residents 5+ who live, work, or study in Massachusetts can now be vaccinated. People ages 5-17 can only get the Pfizer vaccine. People age 18 and older can get any vaccine. All residents 18+ are now eligible for Moderna booster shot, and 12+ are eligible for a Pfizer booster shot, 6 months after receiving the second dose of a Moderna or Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. All residents 18+ who received a single dose of the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine are eligible for a Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 booster shot. 

Click the link for the press release. 

One hundred and thirty seven (137) Additional Positive Cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since April 29, 2022, bringing the cumulative total to 7,824.

For information regarding masks and face coverings, please refer to CDC guidance linked here. The Shrewsbury Board of Health order to require employers to report COVID-19 cases in the workplace will remain in place until further notice. Click the link here for more information.

💉Vaccine Info: All residents 5+ who live, work, or study in Massachusetts can now be vaccinated. People ages 5-17 can only get the Pfizer vaccine. People age 18 and older can get any vaccine. All residents 18+ are now eligible for Moderna booster shot, and 12+ are eligible for a Pfizer booster shot, 6 months after receiving the second dose of a Moderna or Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. All residents 18+ who received a single dose of the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine are eligible for a Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 booster shot. 

Click the link for the press release. 

One hundred and thirteen (113) Additional Positive Cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since April 22, 2022, bringing the cumulative total to 7,687.

For information regarding masks and face coverings, please refer to CDC guidance linked here. The Shrewsbury Board of Health order to require employers to report COVID-19 cases in the workplace will remain in place until further notice. Click the link here for more information.

💉Vaccine Info: All residents 5+ who live, work, or study in Massachusetts can now be vaccinated. People ages 5-17 can only get the Pfizer vaccine. People age 18 and older can get any vaccine. All residents 18+ are now eligible for Moderna booster shot, and 12+ are eligible for a Pfizer booster shot, 6 months after receiving the second dose of a Moderna or Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. All residents 18+ who received a single dose of the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine are eligible for a Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 booster shot. 

Click the link for the press release. 

Fifty-four (54) Additional Positive Cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since April 15, 2022, bringing the cumulative total to 7,574.

For information regarding masks and face coverings, please refer to CDC guidance linked here. The Shrewsbury Board of Health order to require employers to report COVID-19 cases in the workplace will remain in place until further notice. Click the link here for more information.

💉Vaccine Info: All residents 5+ who live, work, or study in Massachusetts can now be vaccinated. People ages 5-17 can only get the Pfizer vaccine. People age 18 and older can get any vaccine. All residents 18+ are now eligible for Moderna booster shot, and 12+ are eligible for a Pfizer booster shot, 6 months after receiving the second dose of a Moderna or Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. All residents 18+ who received a single dose of the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine are eligible for a Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 booster shot. 

Click the link for the press release. 

Seventy-nine (79) Additional Positive Cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since April 8, 2022, bringing the cumulative total to 7,520.

For information regarding masks and face coverings, please refer to CDC guidance linked here. The Shrewsbury Board of Health order to require employers to report COVID-19 cases in the workplace will remain in place until further notice. Click the link here for more information.

💉Vaccine Info: All residents 5+ who live, work, or study in Massachusetts can now be vaccinated. People ages 5-17 can only get the Pfizer vaccine. People age 18 and older can get any vaccine. All residents 18+ are now eligible for Moderna booster shot, and 12+ are eligible for a Pfizer booster shot, 6 months after receiving the second dose of a Moderna or Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. All residents 18+ who received a single dose of the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine are eligible for a Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 booster shot. 

Click the link for the press release. 

Seventy (70) Additional Positive Cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since April 1, 2022, bringing the cumulative total to 7,441.

On March 4, 2022 The Shrewsbury Board of Health voted to rescind the order to require face coverings in all schools K-12 effective immediately. On February 15, 2022, the Shrewsbury Board of Health voted to rescind the order to require face coverings in all indoor private common spaces in the workplace and indoor private spaces open to the public effective Friday, February 18, 2022. The order to require employers to report COVID-19 cases in the workplace will remain in place until further notice. Click the link here for more information.

💉Vaccine Info: All residents 5+ who live, work, or study in Massachusetts can now be vaccinated. People ages 5-17 can only get the Pfizer vaccine. People age 18 and older can get any vaccine. All residents 18+ are now eligible for Moderna booster shot, and 12+ are eligible for a Pfizer booster shot, 6 months after receiving the second dose of a Moderna or Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. All residents 18+ who received a single dose of the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine are eligible for a Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 booster shot. 

Click the link for the press release. 

Fifty-four (54) Additional Positive Cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since March 25, 2022, bringing the cumulative total to 7,371.

On March 4, 2022 The Shrewsbury Board of Health voted to rescind the order to require face coverings in all schools K-12 effective immediately. On February 15, 2022, the Shrewsbury Board of Health voted to rescind the order to require face coverings in all indoor private common spaces in the workplace and indoor private spaces open to the public effective Friday, February 18, 2022. The order to require employers to report COVID-19 cases in the workplace will remain in place until further notice. Click the link here for more information.

💉Vaccine Info: All residents 5+ who live, work, or study in Massachusetts can now be vaccinated. People ages 5-17 can only get the Pfizer vaccine. People age 18 and older can get any vaccine. All residents 18+ are now eligible for Moderna booster shot, and 12+ are eligible for a Pfizer booster shot, 6 months after receiving the second dose of a Moderna or Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. All residents 18+ who received a single dose of the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine are eligible for a Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 booster shot. 

Click the link for the press release. 

Forty (40) Additional Positive Cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since March 18, 2022, bringing the cumulative total to 7,317.

On March 4, 2022 The Shrewsbury Board of Health voted to rescind the order to require face coverings in all schools K-12 effective immediately. On February 15, 2022, the Shrewsbury Board of Health voted to rescind the order to require face coverings in all indoor private common spaces in the workplace and indoor private spaces open to the public effective Friday, February 18, 2022. The order to require employers to report COVID-19 cases in the workplace will remain in place until further notice. Click the link here for more information.

💉Vaccine Info: All residents 5+ who live, work, or study in Massachusetts can now be vaccinated. People ages 5-17 can only get the Pfizer vaccine. People age 18 and older can get any vaccine. All residents 18+ are now eligible for Moderna booster shot, and 12+ are eligible for a Pfizer booster shot, 6 months after receiving the second dose of a Moderna or Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. All residents 18+ who received a single dose of the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine are eligible for a Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 booster shot. 

Click the link for the press release. 

Twenty-two (22) Additional Positive Cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since March 11, 2022, bringing the cumulative total to 7,277.

On March 4, 2022 The Shrewsbury Board of Health voted to rescind the order to require face coverings in all schools K-12 effective immediately. On February 15, 2022, the Shrewsbury Board of Health voted to rescind the order to require face coverings in all indoor private common spaces in the workplace and indoor private spaces open to the public effective Friday, February 18, 2022. The order to require employers to report COVID-19 cases in the workplace will remain in place until further notice. Click the link here for more information.

💉Vaccine Info: All residents 5+ who live, work, or study in Massachusetts can now be vaccinated. People ages 5-17 can only get the Pfizer vaccine. People age 18 and older can get any vaccine. All residents 18+ are now eligible for Moderna booster shot, and 12+ are eligible for a Pfizer booster shot, 6 months after receiving the second dose of a Moderna or Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. All residents 18+ who received a single dose of the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine are eligible for a Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 booster shot. 

Click the link for the press release. 

Thirty-two (32) Additional Positive Cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since March 4, 2022, bringing the cumulative total to 7,255.

On March 4, 2022 The Shrewsbury Board of Health voted to rescind the order to require face coverings in all schools K-12 effective immediately. On February 15, 2022, the Shrewsbury Board of Health voted to rescind the order to require face coverings in all indoor private common spaces in the workplace and indoor private spaces open to the public effective Friday, February 18, 2022. The order to require employers to report COVID-19 cases in the workplace will remain in place until further notice. Click the link here for more information.

💉Vaccine Info: All residents 5+ who live, work, or study in Massachusetts can now be vaccinated. People ages 5-17 can only get the Pfizer vaccine. People age 18 and older can get any vaccine. All residents 18+ are now eligible for Moderna booster shot, and 12+ are eligible for a Pfizer booster shot, 6 months after receiving the second dose of a Moderna or Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. All residents 18+ who received a single dose of the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine are eligible for a Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 booster shot. 

Click the link for the press release. 

Thirty-three (33) Additional Positive Cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since February 25, 2022, bringing the cumulative total to 7,223.

On March 4, 2022 The Shrewsbury Board of Health voted to rescind the order to require face coverings in all schools K-12 effective immediately. On February 15, 2022, the Shrewsbury Board of Health voted to rescind the order to require face coverings in all indoor private common spaces in the workplace and indoor private spaces open to the public effective Friday, February 18, 2022. The order to require employers to report COVID-19 cases in the workplace will remain in place until further notice. Click the link here for more information.

💉Vaccine Info: All residents 5+ who live, work, or study in Massachusetts can now be vaccinated. People ages 5-17 can only get the Pfizer vaccine. People age 18 and older can get any vaccine. All residents 18+ are now eligible for Moderna booster shot, and 12+ are eligible for a Pfizer booster shot, 6 months after receiving the second dose of a Moderna or Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. All residents 18+ who received a single dose of the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine are eligible for a Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 booster shot. 

Complete vaccination data will be issued next week. 

Click the link for the press release. 

Thirty-one (31) Additional Positive Cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since February 18, 2022, bringing the cumulative total to 7,190.

On February 15, 2022, the Shrewsbury Board of Health voted to rescind the order to require face coverings in all indoor private common spaces in the workplace and indoor private spaces open to the public effective Friday, February 18, 2022. The Shrewsbury Board of Health will revisit the order to require face coverings in all schools K-12 at their next scheduled Board of Health meeting on Friday, March 4, 2022, and the order to require employers to report COVID-19 cases in the workplace will remain in place until further notice. Click the link here for more information.

💉Vaccine Info: All residents 5+ who live, work, or study in Massachusetts can now be vaccinated. People ages 5-17 can only get the Pfizer vaccine. People age 18 and older can get any vaccine. All residents 18+ are now eligible for Moderna booster shot, and 12+ are eligible for a Pfizer booster shot, 6 months after receiving the second dose of a Moderna or Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. All residents 18+ who received a single dose of the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine are eligible for a Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 booster shot. 

Click the link for the press release.  

Fifty-one (51) Additional Positive Cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since February 11, 2022, bringing the cumulative total to 7,159.

On February 15, 2022, the Shrewsbury Board of Health voted to rescind the order to require face coverings in all indoor private common spaces in the workplace and indoor private spaces open to the public effective Friday, February 18, 2022. The Shrewsbury Board of Health will revisit the order to require face coverings in all schools K-12 at their next scheduled Board of Health meeting on Friday, March 4, 2022, and the order to require employers to report COVID-19 cases in the workplace will remain in place until further notice. Click the link here for more information.

💉Vaccine Info: All residents 5+ who live, work, or study in Massachusetts can now be vaccinated. People ages 5-17 can only get the Pfizer vaccine. People age 18 and older can get any vaccine. All residents 18+ are now eligible for Moderna booster shot, and 12+ are eligible for a Pfizer booster shot, 6 months after receiving the second dose of a Moderna or Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. All residents 18+ who received a single dose of the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine are eligible for a Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 booster shot. 

Click the link for the press release.  

Eighty two (82) Additional Positive Cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since February 4, 2022, bringing the cumulative total to 7,108.

Effective October 12, 2021 the Shrewsbury Board of Health voted to require face coverings in all indoor private common spaces in the workplace and indoor private spaces open to the public, to require face coverings in all schools K-12, and to require employers to report COVID-19 cases in the workplace. The full text of the order can be found here.  

💉Vaccine Info: All residents 5+ who live, work, or study in Massachusetts can now be vaccinated. People ages 5-17 can only get the Pfizer vaccine. People age 18 and older can get any vaccine. All residents 18+ are now eligible for Moderna booster shot, and 12+ are eligible for a Pfizer booster shot, 6 months after receiving the second dose of a Moderna or Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. All residents 18+ who received a single dose of the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine are eligible for a Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 booster shot. 

Click the link for the press release.  

One hundred and forty two (142) Additional Positive Cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since January 28, 2022, bringing the cumulative total to 7,026.

Effective October 12, 2021 the Shrewsbury Board of Health voted to require face coverings in all indoor private common spaces in the workplace and indoor private spaces open to the public, to require face coverings in all schools K-12, and to require employers to report COVID-19 cases in the workplace. The full text of the order can be found here.  

💉Vaccine Info: All residents 5+ who live, work, or study in Massachusetts can now be vaccinated. People ages 5-17 can only get the Pfizer vaccine. People age 18 and older can get any vaccine. All residents 18+ are now eligible for Moderna booster shot, and 12+ are eligible for a Pfizer booster shot, 6 months after receiving the second dose of a Moderna or Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. All residents 18+ who received a single dose of the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine are eligible for a Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 booster shot. 

Click the link for the press release.  

Two hundred and eighty seven (287) Additional Positive Cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since January 21, 2022, bringing the cumulative total to 6,884. 

Effective October 12, 2021 the Shrewsbury Board of Health voted to require face coverings in all indoor private common spaces in the workplace and indoor private spaces open to the public, to require face coverings in all schools K-12, and to require employers to report COVID-19 cases in the workplace. The full text of the order can be found here.  

💉Vaccine Info: All residents 5+ who live, work, or study in Massachusetts can now be vaccinated. People ages 5-17 can only get the Pfizer vaccine. People age 18 and older can get any vaccine. All residents 18+ are now eligible for Moderna booster shot, and 12+ are eligible for a Pfizer booster shot, 6 months after receiving the second dose of a Moderna or Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. All residents 18+ who received a single dose of the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine are eligible for a Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 booster shot. 

Click the link for the press release.  

Five hundred and thirteen (513) Additional Positive Cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since January 14, 2022, bringing the cumulative total to 6,597. 

Effective October 12, 2021 the Shrewsbury Board of Health voted to require face coverings in all indoor private common spaces in the workplace and indoor private spaces open to the public, to require face coverings in all schools K-12, and to require employers to report COVID-19 cases in the workplace. The full text of the order can be found here.  

💉Vaccine Info: All residents 5+ who live, work, or study in Massachusetts can now be vaccinated. People ages 5-17 can only get the Pfizer vaccine. People age 18 and older can get any vaccine. All residents 18+ are now eligible for Moderna booster shot, and 12+ are eligible for a Pfizer booster shot, 6 months after receiving the second dose of a Moderna or Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. All residents 18+ who received a single dose of the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine are eligible for a Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 booster shot. 

Click the link for the press release.  

Six hundred and twenty nine (629) Additional Positive Cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since January 7, 2022, bringing the cumulative total to 6,084. 

Effective October 12, 2021 the Shrewsbury Board of Health voted to require face coverings in all indoor private common spaces in the workplace and indoor private spaces open to the public, to require face coverings in all schools K-12, and to require employers to report COVID-19 cases in the workplace. The full text of the order can be found here.  

💉Vaccine Info: All residents 5+ who live, work, or study in Massachusetts can now be vaccinated. People ages 5-17 can only get the Pfizer vaccine. People age 18 and older can get any vaccine. All residents 18+ are now eligible for Moderna booster shot, and 12+ are eligible for a Pfizer booster shot, 6 months after receiving the second dose of a Moderna or Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. All residents 18+ who received a single dose of the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine are eligible for a Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 booster shot. 

Click the link for the press release.  

Six hundred and seventy six (676) Additional Positive Cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since December 31, 2021, bringing the cumulative total to 5,455. 

Effective October 12, 2021 the Shrewsbury Board of Health voted to require face coverings in all indoor private common spaces in the workplace and indoor private spaces open to the public, to require face coverings in all schools K-12, and to require employers to report COVID-19 cases in the workplace. The full text of the order can be found here.  

💉Vaccine Info: All residents 5+ who live, work, or study in Massachusetts can now be vaccinated. People ages 5-17 can only get the Pfizer vaccine. People age 18 and older can get any vaccine. All residents 18+ are now eligible for Moderna booster shot, and 12+ are eligible for a Pfizer booster shot, 6 months after receiving the second dose of a Moderna or Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. All residents 18+ who received a single dose of the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine are eligible for a Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 booster shot. 

Click the link for the press release.  

Three hundred and eighteen (318) Additional Positive Cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury from December 27, 2021 - December 31, 2021, bringing the cumulative total to 4,779. Please note this data is for 4 days. Regular weekly reporting will resume on Friday, January 7, 2022. 

Effective October 12, 2021 the Shrewsbury Board of Health voted to require face coverings in all indoor private common spaces in the workplace and indoor private spaces open to the public, to require face coverings in all schools K-12, and to require employers to report COVID-19 cases in the workplace. The full text of the order can be found here.  

💉Vaccine Info: All residents 5+ who live, work, or study in Massachusetts can now be vaccinated. People ages 5-17 can only get the Pfizer vaccine. People age 18 and older can get any vaccine. All residents 18+ are now eligible for Moderna booster shot, and 12+ are eligible for a Pfizer booster shot, 6 months after receiving the second dose of a Moderna or Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. All residents 18+ who received a single dose of the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine are eligible for a Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 booster shot. 

Click the link for the press release.  

Two hundred and fifty three (253) Additional Positive Cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since December 17, 2021, bringing the cumulative total to 4,461. Please note this data is for 10 days. 

Effective October 12, 2021 the Shrewsbury Board of Health voted to require face coverings in all indoor private common spaces in the workplace and indoor private spaces open to the public, to require face coverings in all schools K-12, and to require employers to report COVID-19 cases in the workplace. The full text of the order can be found here.  

💉Vaccine Info: All residents 5+ who live, work, or study in Massachusetts can now be vaccinated. People ages 5-17 can only get the Pfizer vaccine. People age 18 and older can get any vaccine. All residents 18+ are now eligible for Moderna booster shot, and 16+ are eligible for a Pfizer booster shot, 6 months after receiving the second dose of a Moderna or Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. All residents 18+ who received a single dose of the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine are eligible for a Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 booster shot. 

Click the link for the press release.  

One hundred and sixty one (161) Additional Positive Cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since December 10, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 4,208. Effective October 12, 2021 the Shrewsbury Board of Health voted to require face coverings in all indoor private common spaces in the workplace and indoor private spaces open to the public, to require face coverings in all schools K-12, and to require employers to report COVID-19 cases in the workplace. The full text of the order can be found here. Vaccine Info: All residents 5+ who live, work, or study in Massachusetts can now be vaccinated. People ages 5-17 can only get the Pfizer vaccine. People age 18 and older can get any vaccine. All residents 18+ are now eligible for Moderna booster shot, and 16+ are eligible for a Pfizer booster shot, 6 months after receiving the second dose of a Moderna or Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. All residents 18+ who received a single dose of the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine are eligible for a Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 booster shot.

The Central MA Regional Public Health Alliance has provided demographic and vaccination data.

December 10, 2021

One-hundred and fifty-four (154) additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since December 3, 2021, bringing the cumulative total to 4,047. 

Effective October 12, 2021 the Shrewsbury Board of Health voted to require face coverings in all indoor private common spaces in the workplace and indoor private spaces open to the public, to require face coverings in all schools K-12, and to require employers to report COVID-19 cases in the workplace. The full text of the order can be found here.

💉Vaccine Info: All residents can book an appointment at vaxfinder.mass.gov or dial Mass 2-1-1 for assistance. 

All residents 5+ who live, work, or study in Massachusetts can now be vaccinated. People ages 5-17 can only get the Pfizer vaccine. People age 18 and older can get any vaccine. All residents 18 are now eligible for a Pfizer or Moderna booster shot, 6 months after receiving the second dose of a Moderna or Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. All residents 18+ who received a single dose of the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine are eligible for a Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 booster shot.

December 3, 2021: COVID-19 Positive Case Press Release

One hundred and eighteen (118) Additional Positive Cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since November 26, 2021, bringing the cumulative total to 3,893. 

Effective October 12, 2021 the Shrewsbury Board of Health voted to require face coverings in all indoor private common spaces in the workplace and indoor private spaces open to the public, to require face coverings in all schools K-12, and to require employers to report COVID-19 cases in the workplace. The full text of the order can be found here. 

💉Vaccine Info: All residents can book an appointment at vaxfinder.mass.gov or dial Mass 2-1-1 for assistance.

All residents 5+ who live, work, or study in Massachusetts can now be vaccinated. People ages 5-17 can only get the Pfizer vaccine. People age 18 and older can get any vaccine. All residents 18 are now eligible for a Pfizer or Moderna booster shot, 6 months after receiving the second dose of a Moderna or Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. All residents 18+ who received a single dose of the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine are eligible for a Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 booster shot. 

November 29, 2021: COVID-19 Vaccination and Demographic Data 

The Central Massachusetts Regional Public Health Alliance has provided vaccination and demographic data for Shrewsbury. 

💉Vaccine Info: All residents 5+ who live, work, or study in Massachusetts can now be vaccinated. People ages 5-17 can only get the Pfizer vaccine. People age 18 and older can get any vaccine. All residents 18 are now eligible for a Pfizer or Moderna booster shot, 6 months after receiving the second dose of a Moderna or Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. All residents 18+ who received a single dose of the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine are eligible for a Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 booster shot.

Click the link for the press release.

Sixty-three (63) Additional Positive Cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since November 19, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 3,775. Effective October 12, 2021 the Shrewsbury Board of Health voted to require face coverings in all indoor private common spaces in the workplace and indoor private spaces open to the public, to require face coverings in all schools K-12, and to require employers to report COVID-19 cases in the workplace. The full text of the order can be found here. Vaccine Info: All residents can book an appointment at mass.gov/COVIDVaccine or dial Mass 2-1-1 for assistance. All residents 5+ who live, work, or study in Massachusetts can now be vaccinated. People ages 12-17 can only get the Pfizer vaccine. People age 18 and older can get any vaccine. All residents 18+ are now eligible for a Pfizer or Moderna booster shot, 6 months after receiving the second Pfizer or Moderna COVID-19 vaccine.  All residents 18+ who received a single dose of the Johnson and Johnson COVID-19 vaccine are eligible for a Johnson and Johnson COVID-19 booster shot.  Vaccination data is not included in this press release, but will be updated and released on Monday, November 29, 2021.  Click the link below for the press release.

November 19, 2021

WEEKLY REPORT OF CONFIRMED CASES OF COVID-19 IN THE TOWN OF SHREWSBURY

The Town of Shrewsbury has been notified by the Central Massachusetts Regional Public Health Alliance (CMRPHA) that additional Shrewsbury residents have tested positive for Coronavirus (COVID-19). Public Health Officials are working closely with the individuals and will notify others that the individuals may have been in contact with. CMRPHA will continue to work with the Massachusetts Department of Public Health to ensure any affected residents are properly monitored, quarantined and isolated as each case dictates. 

Positive cases in the Town of Shrewsbury as of today, November 19, 2021: 3,712 (+64)

Positive cases in the Town of Shrewsbury as last reported, November 12, 2021: 3,648

14 Day Increase (from 11/6/2021 to today): +94

30 Day Increase (from 10/21//2021 to today): + 197

60 Day Increase (from 9/21/2021 to today): + 406

Click HERE for the daily Interactive Data Dashboard from the MA Department of Public Health 

Click HERE for the Weekly COVID-19 Vaccination Report from the MA Department of Public Health 

Effective October 12, 2021 the Shrewsbury Board of Health voted to require face coverings in all indoor private common spaces in the workplace and indoor private spaces open to the public, to require face coverings in all schools K-12, and to require employers to report COVID-19 cases in the workplace. The full text of the order can be found here. 

💉Vaccine Info: All residents can book an appointment at vaxfinder.mass.gov or dial Mass 2-1-1 for assistance.

All residents 12+ who live, work, or study in Massachusetts can now be vaccinated. People ages 12-17 can only get the Pfizer vaccine. People age 18 and older can get any vaccine. All residents 65+ and residents 18+ at high risk who have received the Pfizer vaccine are now eligible for a Pfizer booster shot, 6 months after receiving the second Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. 

The Central Massachusetts Regional Public Health Alliance has provided the following data for Shrewsbury. The Town of Shrewsbury has been in the Yellow category for the last several weeks. 

The Central Massachusetts Regional Public Health Alliance has also provided the following vaccination data as of November 16, 2021:

The Central Massachusetts Regional Public Health Alliance has also provided the following demographic data as of November 19, 2021:

The Town of Shrewsbury is committed to keeping the public informed during this period of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. The Town will report positive cases and vaccination data each Friday by 4:30PM*. The Town Manager's Office will update the public with any new developments or changes in Town operations including confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Shrewsbury, in the following order: 

1. Website Newsflash  (visit https://shrewsburyma.gov/list.aspx to subscribe) 
2. Alert for COVID-19 Page (visit https://shrewsburyma.gov/list.aspx to subscribe) 
3. Cases Tab on COVID-19 Page
4. Social Media Accounts (Facebook & Twitter)

General Coronavirus Information: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html

As a reminder, the Town of Shrewsbury is part of the coalition of the seven municipalities in the Central Massachusetts Regional Public Health Alliance (CMRPHA).

If you would like to reach out via email, you may do so at Health@worcesterma.gov, however, please note that this email is monitored Monday through Friday-8:30 AM to 5:00PM. Due to the high volume of COVID-19 inquiries, you may expect a response back within 1-2 business days. 

November 15, 2021: COVID-19 Vaccination and Demographic Data 

The Central Massachusetts Regional Public Health Alliance has provided the following data for Shrewsbury. 

💉Vaccine Info: All residents can book an appointment at mass.gov/COVIDVaccine or dial Mass 2-1-1 for assistance. 

All residents 12+ who live, work, or study in Massachusetts can now be vaccinated. People ages 12-17 can only get the Pfizer vaccine. People age 18 and older can get any vaccine. All residents 65+ and residents 18+ at high risk who have received the Pfizer vaccine are now eligible for a Pfizer booster shot, 6 months after receiving the second Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. 

Click the link below for the press release.

November 12, 2021

WEEKLY REPORT OF CONFIRMED CASES OF COVID-19 IN THE TOWN OF SHREWSBURY

The Town of Shrewsbury has been notified by the Central Massachusetts Regional Public Health Alliance (CMRPHA) that additional Shrewsbury residents have tested positive for Coronavirus (COVID-19). Public Health Officials are working closely with the individuals and will notify others that the individuals may have been in contact with. CMRPHA will continue to work with the Massachusetts Department of Public Health to ensure any affected residents are properly monitored, quarantined and isolated as each case dictates. 

Positive cases in the Town of Shrewsbury as of today, November 12, 2021: 3,648 (+38)

Positive cases in the Town of Shrewsbury as last reported, November 5, 2021: 3,610

14 Day Increase (from 10/30/2021 to today): +74

30 Day Increase (from 10/14/2021 to today): +183

60 Day Increase (from 9/14/2021 to today): +395

Click HERE for the daily Interactive Data Dashboard from the MA Department of Public Health 

Effective October 12, 2021 the Shrewsbury Board of Health voted to require face coverings in all indoor private common spaces in the workplace and indoor private spaces open to the public, to require face coverings in all schools K-12, and to require employers to report COVID-19 cases in the workplace. The full text of the order can be found here. 

💉Vaccine Info: All residents can book an appointment at vaxfinder.mass.gov or dial Mass 2-1-1 for assistance.

All residents 12+ who live, work, or study in Massachusetts can now be vaccinated. People ages 12-17 can only get the Pfizer vaccine. People age 18 and older can get any vaccine. All residents 65+ and residents 18+ at high risk who have received the Pfizer vaccine are now eligible for a Pfizer booster shot, 6 months after receiving the second Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. 

The Central Massachusetts Regional Public Health Alliance provided vaccination and demographic data as of November 5, 2021. This data was included in last week’s Weekly Report of Confirmed Cases of COVID-19 in the Town of Shrewsbury. The vaccination and demographic data as of November 12, 2021, will be provided in an updated weekly report on Monday, November 15, 2021. 

The Town of Shrewsbury is committed to keeping the public informed during this period of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. The Town will report positive cases and vaccination data each Friday by 4:30PM*. The Town Manager's Office will update the public with any new developments or changes in Town operations including confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Shrewsbury, in the following order: 

1. Website Newsflash  (visit https://shrewsburyma.gov/list.aspx to subscribe) 
2. Alert for COVID-19 Page (visit https://shrewsburyma.gov/list.aspx to subscribe) 
3. Cases Tab on COVID-19 Page
4. Social Media Accounts (Facebook & Twitter)

General Coronavirus Information: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html

As a reminder, the Town of Shrewsbury is part of the coalition of the seven municipalities in the Central Massachusetts Regional Public Health Alliance (CMRPHA).

If you would like to reach out via email, you may do so at Health@worcesterma.gov, however, please note that this email is monitored Monday through Friday-8:30 AM to 5:00PM. Due to the high volume of COVID-19 inquiries, you may expect a response back within 1-2 business days. 

November 5, 2021

WEEKLY REPORT OF CONFIRMED CASES OF COVID-19 IN THE TOWN OF SHREWSBURY

The Town of Shrewsbury has been notified by the Central Massachusetts Regional Public Health Alliance (CMRPHA) that additional Shrewsbury residents have tested positive for Coronavirus (COVID-19). Public Health Officials are working closely with the individuals and will notify others that the individuals may have been in contact with. CMRPHA will continue to work with the Massachusetts Department of Public Health to ensure any affected residents are properly monitored, quarantined and isolated as each case dictates. 

Positive cases in the Town of Shrewsbury as of today, November 5, 2021: 3,610 (+38)

Positive cases in the Town of Shrewsbury as last reported, October 29, 2021: 3,572

14 Day Increase (from 10/22/2021 to today): +100

 30 Day Increase (from 10/6/2021 to today): + 200

60 Day Increase (from 9/6/2021 to today): + 503

Click HERE for the daily Interactive Data Dashboard from the MA Department of Public Health 

Click HERE for the Weekly COVID-19 Vaccination Report from the MA Department of Public Health 

Effective October 12, 2021 the Shrewsbury Board of Health voted to require face coverings in all indoor private common spaces in the workplace and indoor private spaces open to the public, to require face coverings in all schools K-12, and to require employers to report COVID-19 cases in the workplace. The full text of the order can be found here. 

💉Vaccine Info: All residents can book an appointment at vaxfinder.mass.gov or dial Mass 2-1-1 for assistance.

October 29, 2021

WEEKLY REPORT OF CONFIRMED CASES OF COVID-19 IN THE TOWN OF SHREWSBURY

The Town of Shrewsbury has been notified by the Central Massachusetts Regional Public Health Alliance (CMRPHA) that additional Shrewsbury residents have tested positive for Coronavirus (COVID-19). Public Health Officials are working closely with the individuals and will notify others that the individuals may have been in contact with. CMRPHA will continue to work with the Massachusetts Department of Public Health to ensure any affected residents are properly monitored, quarantined and isolated as each case dictates. 

Positive cases in the Town of Shrewsbury as of today, October 29, 2021: 3,572 (+54)

Positive cases in the Town of Shrewsbury as last reported, October 22, 2021: 3,518

14 Day Increase (from 10/16/2021 to today): +93

30 Day Increase (from 9/30/2021 to today): + 211

60 Day Increase (from 8/31/2021 to today): + 415

Click HERE for the daily Interactive Data Dashboard from the MA Department of Public Health 

Click HERE for the Weekly COVID-19 Vaccination Report from the MA Department of Public Health 

Effective October 12, 2021 the Shrewsbury Board of Health voted to require face coverings in all indoor private common spaces in the workplace and indoor private spaces open to the public, to require face coverings in all schools K-12, and to require employers to report COVID-19 cases in the workplace. The full text of the order can be found here. 

💉Vaccine Info: All residents can book an appointment at vaxfinder.mass.gov or dial Mass 2-1-1 for assistance.

All residents 12+ who live, work, or study in Massachusetts can now be vaccinated. People ages 12-17 can only get the Pfizer vaccine. People age 18 and older can get any vaccine. All residents 65+ and residents 18+ at high risk who have received the Pfizer vaccine are now eligible for a Pfizer booster shot, 6 months after receiving the second Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. 

The Central Massachusetts Regional Public Health Alliance has provided the following data for Shrewsbury. The Town of Shrewsbury has been in the Yellow category for the last seven weeks. 

The Central Massachusetts Regional Public Health Alliance has also provided the following vaccination data as of October 29, 2021:

The Central Massachusetts Regional Public Health Alliance has also provided the following demographic data as of October 29, 2021:

The Town of Shrewsbury is committed to keeping the public informed during this period of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. The Town will report positive cases and vaccination data each Friday by 4:30PM*. The Town Manager's Office will update the public with any new developments or changes in Town operations including confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Shrewsbury, in the following order: 

1. Website Newsflash  (visit https://shrewsburyma.gov/list.aspx to subscribe) 
2. Alert for COVID-19 Page (visit https://shrewsburyma.gov/list.aspx to subscribe) 
3. Cases Tab on COVID-19 Page
4. Social Media Accounts (Facebook & Twitter)

General Coronavirus Information: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html

As a reminder, the Town of Shrewsbury is part of the coalition of the seven municipalities in the Central Massachusetts Regional Public Health Alliance (CMRPHA).

If you would like to reach out via email, you may do so at Health@worcesterma.gov, however, please note that this email is monitored Monday through Friday-8:30 AM to 5:00PM. Due to the high volume of COVID-19 inquiries, you may expect a response back within 1-2 business days. 

October 22, 2021

WEEKLY REPORT OF CONFIRMED CASES OF COVID-19 IN THE TOWN OF SHREWSBURY

The Town of Shrewsbury has been notified by the Central Massachusetts Regional Public Health Alliance (CMRPHA) that additional Shrewsbury residents have tested positive for Coronavirus (COVID-19). Public Health Officials are working closely with the individuals and will notify others that the individuals may have been in contact with. CMRPHA will continue to work with the Massachusetts Department of Public Health to ensure any affected residents are properly monitored, quarantined and isolated as each case dictates. 

Positive cases in the Town of Shrewsbury as of today, October 22, 2021: 3,518 (+46)

Positive cases in the Town of Shrewsbury as last reported, October 15, 2021: 3,472

14 Day Increase (from 10/9/2021 to today): +93

30 Day Increase (from 9/23/2021 to today): + 211

60 Day Increase (from 8/24/2021 to today): + 415

Click HERE for the daily Interactive Data Dashboard from the MA Department of Public Health 

Click HERE for the Weekly COVID-19 Vaccination Report from the MA Department of Public Health 

Effective October 12, 2021 the Shrewsbury Board of Health voted to require face coverings in all indoor private common spaces in the workplace and indoor private spaces open to the public, to require face coverings in all schools K-12, and to require employers to report COVID-19 cases in the workplace. The full text of the order can be found here. 

💉Vaccine Info: All residents can book an appointment at vaxfinder.mass.gov or dial Mass 2-1-1 for assistance.

All residents 12+ who live, work, or study in Massachusetts can now be vaccinated. People ages 12-17 can only get the Pfizer vaccine. People age 18 and older can get any vaccine. All residents 65+ and residents 18+ at high risk who have received the Pfizer vaccine are now eligible for a Pfizer booster shot, 6 months after receiving the second Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. 

The Central Massachusetts Regional Public Health Alliance has provided the following data for Shrewsbury. The Town of Shrewsbury has been in the Yellow category for the last six weeks. 

The Central Massachusetts Regional Public Health Alliance has also provided the following vaccination data as of October 19, 2021:

The Central Massachusetts Regional Public Health Alliance has also provided the following demographic data as of October 22, 2021:

The Town of Shrewsbury is committed to keeping the public informed during this period of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. The Town will report positive cases and vaccination data each Friday by 4:30PM*. The Town Manager's Office will update the public with any new developments or changes in Town operations including confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Shrewsbury, in the following order: 

1. Website Newsflash  (visit https://shrewsburyma.gov/list.aspx to subscribe) 
2. Alert for COVID-19 Page (visit https://shrewsburyma.gov/list.aspx to subscribe) 
3. Cases Tab on COVID-19 Page
4. Social Media Accounts (Facebook & Twitter)

General Coronavirus Information: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html

As a reminder, the Town of Shrewsbury is part of the coalition of the seven municipalities in the Central Massachusetts Regional Public Health Alliance (CMRPHA).

If you would like to reach out via email, you may do so at Health@worcesterma.gov, however, please note that this email is monitored Monday through Friday-8:30 AM to 5:00PM. Due to the high volume of COVID-19 inquiries, you may expect a response 

Forty-seven (47) Additional Positive Cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since October 8, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 3,472. 

Effective October 12, 2021 the Shrewsbury Board of Health voted to require face coverings in all indoor private common spaces in the workplace and indoor private spaces open to the public, to require face coverings in all schools K-12, and to require employers to report COVID-19 cases in the workplace. The full text of the order can be found here. 

💉Vaccine Info: All residents can book an appointment at mass.gov/COVIDVaccine or dial Mass 2-1-1 for assistance. 

All residents 12+ who live, work, or study in Massachusetts can now be vaccinated. People ages 12-17 can only get the Pfizer vaccine. People age 18 and older can get any vaccine. All residents 65+ and residents 18+ at high risk who have received the Pfizer vaccine are now eligible for a Pfizer booster shot, 6 months after receiving the second Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. 

Positive COVID-19 case reports and vaccination data will be updated each Friday. Click the link below for the press release.

Fifty-two (52) Additional Positive Cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since October 1, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 3,425. 

On October 5, 2021 the Shrewsbury Board of Health voted to require face coverings in all indoor private common spaces in the workplace and indoor private spaces open to the public, to require face coverings in all schools K-12, and to require employers to report COVID-19 cases in the workplace. All three orders will be effective on Tuesday, October 12, 2021. The full text of the order can be found here. 

💉Vaccine Info: All residents can book an appointment at mass.gov/COVIDVaccine or dial Mass 2-1-1 for assistance. Residents age 60+ may call the Shrewsbury Senior Center at 508-841-8640 or Mass 2-1-1 for assistance.

All residents 12+ who live, work, or study in Massachusetts can now be vaccinated. People ages 12-17 can only get the Pfizer vaccine. People age 18 and older can get any vaccine. All residents 65+ and residents 18+ at high risk who have received the Pfizer vaccine are now eligible for a Pfizer booster shot, 6 months after receiving the second Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. 

Positive COVID-19 case reports and vaccination data will be updated each Friday. Click the link below for the press release.

Fifty-six (56) Additional Positive Cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since September 24, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 3,373. 

On Friday, August 20, 2021 the Shrewsbury Board of Health voted to highly recommend that masks be worn in indoor spaces throughout the Town of Shrewsbury. Please note that all employees and visitors in all municipal buildings are required to wear a face mask. 

💉Vaccine Info: All residents can book an appointment at mass.gov/COVIDVaccine or dial Mass 2-1-1 for assistance. Residents age 60+ may call the Shrewsbury Senior Center at 508-841-8640 or Mass 2-1-1 for assistance.

All residents 12+ who live, work, or study in Massachusetts can now be vaccinated. People ages 12-17 can only get the Pfizer vaccine. People age 18 and older can get any vaccine. All residents 65+ and residents 18+ at high risk who have received the Pfizer vaccine are now eligible for a Pfizer booster shot, 6 months after receiving the second Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. 

Positive COVID-19 case reports and vaccination data will be updated each Friday. Click the link below for the press release.

Thirty-one (31) Additional Positive Cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since September 17, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 3,317.  

On Friday, August 20, 2021 the Shrewsbury Board of Health voted to highly recommend that masks be worn in indoor spaces throughout the Town of Shrewsbury. Please note that all employees and visitors in all municipal buildings are required to wear a face mask. 

💉Vaccine Info: All residents can book an appointment at mass.gov/COVIDVaccine or dial Mass 2-1-1 for assistance. Residents age 60+ may call the Shrewsbury Senior Center at 508-841-8640 or Mass 2-1-1 for assistance.

All residents 12+ who live, work, or study in Massachusetts can now be vaccinated. People ages 12-17 can only get the Pfizer vaccine. People age 18 and older can get any vaccine. 

Positive COVID-19 case reports and vaccination data will be updated each Friday. Click the link below for the press release.

Sixty-three (63) Additional Positive Cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since September 10, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 3,286.  

On Friday, August 20, 2021 the Shrewsbury Board of Health voted to highly recommend that masks be worn in indoor spaces throughout the Town of Shrewsbury. Please note that all employees and visitors in all municipal buildings are required to wear a face mask. 

💉Vaccine Info: All residents can book an appointment at mass.gov/COVIDVaccine or dial Mass 2-1-1 for assistance. Residents age 60+ may call the Shrewsbury Senior Center at 508-841-8640 or Mass 2-1-1 for assistance.

All residents 12+ who live, work, or study in Massachusetts can now be vaccinated. People ages 12-17 can only get the Pfizer vaccine. People age 18 and older can get any vaccine. 

Positive COVID-19 case reports and vaccination data will be updated each Friday. Click the link below for the press release.

Fifty-seven (57) Additional Positive Cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since September 3, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 3,223.  

On Friday, August 20, 2021 the Shrewsbury Board of Health voted to highly recommend that masks be worn in indoor spaces throughout the Town of Shrewsbury. Please note that all employees and visitors in all municipal buildings are required to wear a face mask. 

💉Vaccine Info: All residents can book an appointment at mass.gov/COVIDVaccine or dial Mass 2-1-1 for assistance. Residents age 60+ may call the Shrewsbury Senior Center at 508-841-8640 or Mass 2-1-1 for assistance.

All residents 12+ who live, work, or study in Massachusetts can now be vaccinated. People ages 12-17 can only get the Pfizer vaccine. People age 18 and older can get any vaccine. 

Positive COVID-19 case reports and vaccination data will be updated each Friday. Click the link below for the press release.

Forty-six (46) Additional Positive Cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since August 27, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 3,166. 

On Friday, August 20, 2021 the Shrewsbury Board of Health voted to highly recommend that masks be worn in indoor spaces throughout the Town of Shrewsbury. Please note that all employees and visitors in all municipal buildings are required to wear a face mask. 

💉Vaccine Info: All residents can book an appointment at mass.gov/COVIDVaccine or dial Mass 2-1-1 for assistance. Residents age 60+ may call the Shrewsbury Senior Center at 508-841-8640 or Mass 2-1-1 for assistance.

All residents 12+ who live, work, or study in Massachusetts can now be vaccinated. People ages 12-17 can only get the Pfizer vaccine. People age 18 and older can get any vaccine. 

Positive COVID-19 case reports and vaccination data will be updated each Friday. Click the link below for the press release.

Thirty-three (33) Additional Positive Cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since August 20, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 3,120. 

On Friday, August 20, 2021 the Shrewsbury Board of Health voted to highly recommend that masks be worn in indoor spaces throughout the Town of Shrewsbury. Please note that all employees and visitors in all municipal buildings are required to wear a face mask. 

💉Vaccine Info: All residents can book an appointment at mass.gov/COVIDVaccine or dial Mass 2-1-1 for assistance. Residents age 60+ may call the Shrewsbury Senior Center at 508-841-8640 or Mass 2-1-1 for assistance.

All residents 12+ who live, work, or study in Massachusetts can now be vaccinated. People ages 12-17 can only get the Pfizer vaccine. People age 18 and older can get any vaccine. 

Positive COVID-19 case reports and vaccination data will be updated each Friday. Click the link below for the press release.

Thirty-two (32) Additional Positive Cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since August 13, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 3,087. 

On Friday, August 20, 2021 the Shrewsbury Board of Health voted to highly recommend that masks be worn in indoor spaces throughout the Town of Shrewsbury. Please note that all employees and visitors in all municipal buildings are required to wear a face mask. 

💉Vaccine Info: All residents can book an appointment at mass.gov/COVIDVaccine or dial Mass 2-1-1 for assistance. Residents age 60+ may call the Shrewsbury Senior Center at 508-841-8640 or Mass 2-1-1 for assistance.

All residents 12+ who live, work, or study in Massachusetts can now be vaccinated. People ages 12-17 can only get the Pfizer vaccine. People age 18 and older can get any vaccine. 

Positive COVID-19 case reports and vaccination data will be updated each Friday. Click the link below for the press release.

Twenty-One (21) Additional Positive Cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since August 6, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 3,055. 

Please be advised, effective Monday, August 16, 2021, following guidance from the CDC and the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, all employees and visitors in all municipal buildings will be required to wear a face mask.  

💉Vaccine Info: All residents can book an appointment at mass.gov/COVIDVaccine or dial Mass 2-1-1 for assistance. Residents age 60+ may call the Shrewsbury Senior Center at 508-841-8640 or Mass 2-1-1 for assistance.

All residents 12+ who live, work, or study in Massachusetts can now be vaccinated. People ages 12-17 can only get the Pfizer vaccine. People age 18 and older can get any vaccine. 

Positive COVID-19 case reports and vaccination data will be updated each Friday. Click the link below for the press release.

Twenty-Eight (28) Additional Positive Cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since July 30, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 3,034. 

💉Vaccine Info: All residents can book an appointment at mass.gov/COVIDVaccine or dial Mass 2-1-1 for assistance. Residents age 60+ may call the Shrewsbury Senior Center at 508-841-8640 or Mass 2-1-1 for assistance.

All residents 12+ who live, work, or study in Massachusetts can now be vaccinated. People ages 12-17 can only get the Pfizer vaccine. People age 18 and older can get any vaccine. 

Positive COVID-19 case reports and vaccination data will be updated each Friday. Click the link below for the press release.

Nineteen (19) Additional Positive Cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since July 23, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 3,006.

The Town of Shrewsbury, in conjunction with CMRPHA, will be hosting a COVID-19 Vaccination Clinic during the Shrewsbury Police Department’s National Night Out on Tuesday, August 3, 2021 from 5:00pm-7:00pm in the Selectmen’s Meeting Room at Shrewsbury Town Hall, 100 Maple Avenue. Click here for more information.

💉Vaccine Info: All residents can book an appointment at mass.gov/COVIDVaccine or dial Mass 2-1-1 for assistance. Residents age 60+ may call the Shrewsbury Senior Center at 508-841-8640 or Mass 2-1-1 for assistance.

All residents 12+ who live, work, or study in Massachusetts can now be vaccinated. People ages 12-17 can only get the Pfizer vaccine. People age 18 and older can get any vaccine. 

Positive COVID-19 case reports and vaccination data will be updated each Friday. Click the link below for the press release.

10 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since July 16, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,987. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help to reduce the spread of COVID-19. 

 💉Vaccine Info: All residents can book an appointment at mass.gov/COVIDVaccine or dial Mass 2-1-1 for assistance. Residents age 60+ may call the Shrewsbury Senior Center at 508-841-8640 or Mass 2-1-1 for assistance.

 All residents 12+ who live, work, or study in Massachusetts can now be vaccinated. People ages 12-17 can only get the Pfizer vaccine. People age 18 and older can get any vaccine. 

The Central Massachusetts Regional Public Health Alliance has provided demographic and vaccination data included in this press release.

5 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since July 9, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,977. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help to reduce the spread of COVID-19. 

 💉Vaccine Info: All residents can preregister to book an appointment at a mass vaccination site at mass.gov/COVIDVaccine or dial Mass 2-1-1 for assistance. Residents age 60+ may call the Shrewsbury Senior Center at 508-841-8640 or Mass 2-1-1 for assistance.

 All residents 12+ who live, work, or study in Massachusetts can now be vaccinated. People ages 12-17 can only get the Pfizer vaccine. People age 18 and older can get any vaccine. 

The Central Massachusetts Regional Public Health Alliance has provided demographic and vaccination data included in this press release.

2 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since July 2, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,972. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help to reduce the spread of COVID-19. 

 💉Vaccine Info: All residents can preregister to book an appointment at a mass vaccination site at mass.gov/COVIDVaccine or dial Mass 2-1-1 for assistance. Residents age 60+ may call the Shrewsbury Senior Center at 508-841-8640 or Mass 2-1-1 for assistance.

 All residents 12+ who live, work, or study in Massachusetts can now be vaccinated. People ages 12-17 can only get the Pfizer vaccine. People age 18 and older can get any vaccine. 

The Central Massachusetts Regional Public Health Alliance has provided demographic and vaccination data included in this press release.

0 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since June 25, 2021. The cumulative total remains 2,970. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help to reduce the spread of COVID-19. 

 💉Vaccine Info: All residents can preregister to book an appointment at a mass vaccination site at mass.gov/COVIDVaccine or dial Mass 2-1-1 for assistance. Residents age 60+ may call the Shrewsbury Senior Center at 508-841-8640 or Mass 2-1-1 for assistance.

 All residents 12+ who live, work, or study in Massachusetts can now be vaccinated. People ages 12-17 can only get the Pfizer vaccine. People age 18 and older can get any vaccine. 

The Central Massachusetts Regional Public Health Alliance has provided demographic and vaccination data included in this press release. 

1 additional positive case of COVID-19 has been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since June 18, 2021, bringing the cumulative total to 2,970. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help to reduce the spread of COVID-19. 

 💉Vaccine Info: All residents can preregister to book an appointment at a mass vaccination site at mass.gov/COVIDVaccine or dial Mass 2-1-1 for assistance. Residents age 60+ may call the Shrewsbury Senior Center at 508-841-8640 or Mass 2-1-1 for assistance.

 All residents 12+ who live, work, or study in Massachusetts can now be vaccinated. People ages 12-17 can only get the Pfizer vaccine. People age 18 and older can get any vaccine.

0 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since June 11, 2021, bringing the cumulative total to 2,969. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help to reduce the spread of COVID-19. 

 💉Vaccine Info: All residents can preregister to book an appointment at a mass vaccination site at mass.gov/COVIDVaccine or dial Mass 2-1-1 for assistance. Residents age 60+ may call the Shrewsbury Senior Center at 508-841-8640 or Mass 2-1-1 for assistance.

 All residents 12+ who live, work, or study in Massachusetts can now be vaccinated. People ages 12-17 can only get the Pfizer vaccine. People age 18 and older can get any vaccine. 

2 additional positive case of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since June 4, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,970. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. We are still seeing community spread occurring despite vaccination efforts. It is crucial for us to keep our guards up and remain vigilant until herd immunity is achieved. The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are: 😷Wear a mask. 👏Wash your hands. ↔️Keep your distance. 🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces. 🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results. 👨‍🔬Get tested. 💉Vaccine Info: All residents 12+ are now eligible and can preregister to book an appointment at a mass vaccination site at mass.gov/COVIDVaccine or dial Mass 2-1-1 for assistance. Residents age 60+ may call the Shrewsbury Senior Center at 508-841-8640 or Mass 2-1-1 for assistance.

2 additional positive case of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since May 28, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,968. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. We are still seeing community spread occurring despite vaccination efforts. It is crucial for us to keep our guards up and remain vigilant until herd immunity is achieved. The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are: 😷Wear a mask. 👏Wash your hands. ↔️Keep your distance. 🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces. 🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results. 👨‍🔬Get tested. 💉Vaccine Info: All residents 12+ are now eligible and can preregister to book an appointment at a mass vaccination site at mass.gov/COVIDVaccine or dial Mass 2-1-1 for assistance. Residents age 60+ may call the Shrewsbury Senior Center at 508-841-8640 or Mass 2-1-1 for assistance.

Baker-Polito Administration - Press Release 5-28-2021

6 additional positive case of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since May 21, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,966. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. We are still seeing community spread occurring despite vaccination efforts. It is crucial for us to keep our guards up and remain vigilant until herd immunity is achieved. The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are: 😷Wear a mask. 👏Wash your hands. ↔️Keep your distance. 🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces. 🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results. 👨‍🔬Get tested. 💉Vaccine Info: All residents 12+ are now eligible and can preregister to book an appointment at a mass vaccination site at mass.gov/COVIDVaccine or dial Mass 2-1-1 for assistance. Residents age 60+ may call the Shrewsbury Senior Center at 508-841-8640 or Mass 2-1-1 for assistance.

Governor Baker Files Legislation to Extend Certain COVID-19 Emergency Measures

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 25, 2021 

Today, May 25, 2021 Governor Charlie Baker will file legislation to extend certain emergency measures currently in place via executive orders that are set to expire on June 15, 2021 when the State of Emergency will be rescinded. Most restrictions, including limitations placed on businesses, will be rescinded effective May 29, 2021 as Massachusetts nears the goal of vaccinating four million residents. 

This legislation proposes to extend measures providing for a temporary suspension of certain open meeting law requirements, special permits for expanded outside dining at restaurants, and billing protections for COVID-19 patients. When the State of Emergency ends, these orders will expire, and temporarily extending these measures will allow for time to transition. Extending these measures, which were instituted by executive order, requires legislation. 

To allow public bodies to safely meet during the pandemic and ensure public access to meetings, Governor Baker issued an Executive Order in March 2020 allowing these bodies to meet quorum requirements even if meetings were held remotely through electronic means as long as measures were taken to ensure the public with electronic access to the proceedings. The bill filed by Governor Baker today will extend these provisions related to the Commonwealth’s Open Meeting Law until September 1, 2021, which will allow additional time to consider possible permanent changes to the open meeting law to provide for greater flexibility in conducting open meetings through reliance on electronic streaming and similar measures. 

The bill will also grant municipalities authority to extend special permits for restaurants offering outdoor dining issued under the State of Emergency through November 29, 2021. Under an Executive Order issued in 2020, municipalities were permitted to use an expedited process to approve temporary permits for new or expanded outdoor dining and alcohol service. Without a legislative extension, special permits granted under the Governor’s Order will expire 60 days after the end of the State of Emergency.  

The legislation will also extend a protection adopted in an executive order that prohibits medical providers from billing patients who have received COVID-related emergency and inpatient services for charges in excess of costs paid by their insurers. As filed, the protection would extend until January 1, 2022, at which time recently passed federal legislation that included protections for both emergency and non-emergency cases will become effective. Earlier this year, Governor Baker signed legislation establishing surprise billing protections for patients for non-emergency services. 

“Massachusetts is leading the nation in the vaccination effort and that progress is enabling the Commonwealth to return to normal,” said Governor Charlie Baker. “These temporary measures will help businesses and residents in this transition period, and I look forward to working on these and other issues in the week ahead with our partners in the Legislature.” 

Last week, Governor Baker announced that on May 29, 2021 all industries will be permitted to open. 

With the exception of remaining face-covering requirements for masks in public and private transportation systems, hospitals and other facilities housing vulnerable populations, all industry restrictions will be lifted at that time, and capacity will increase to 100% for all industries. The gathering limit will be rescinded. 

Before June 15, 2021 the administration plans to take additional steps that will permit the continuation of targeted public health measures beyond the end of the State of Emergency, including the mask requirements announced last week.

6 additional positive case of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since May 14, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,960. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. We are still seeing community spread occurring despite vaccination efforts. It is crucial for us to keep our guards up and remain vigilant until herd immunity is achieved. The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are: 😷Wear a mask. 👏Wash your hands. ↔️Keep your distance. 🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces. 🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results. 👨‍🔬Get tested. 💉Vaccine Info: All residents 12+ are now eligible and can preregister to book an appointment at a mass vaccination site at mass.gov/COVIDVaccine or dial Mass 2-1-1 for assistance. Residents age 60+ may call the Shrewsbury Senior Center at 508-841-8640 or Mass 2-1-1 for assistance.

The Baker-Polito Administration today announced plans to close the Commonwealth’s vaccine preregistration system by the end of May. The COVID-19 Vaccine Finder at vaxfinder.mass.gov will remain available, with over 900 locations listed across the state.

The Administration also announced the expansion of the state’s Homebound Vaccination Program to support in-home vaccinations for all eligible residents who are unable to get to a vaccine site, beginning Monday, May 24.

Preregistration System: The preregistration form at vaccinesignup.mass.gov will be closed to new submissions on Tuesday, May 25. Over the next several days, all remaining people still in the system will be contacted with an opportunity to book appointments before closing out the system on May 31. All remaining people who preregistered will be given an opportunity to book before the system closes.

The Commonwealth’s COVID-19 Vaccine Finder at vaxfinder.mass.gov will remain available. There are over 900 locations available with thousands of appointments in every region of Massachusetts. Users can also find information about no wait, walk-up appointments at select locations, accessibility information, and can plan for their appointment using the MBTA trip planner tool. Users can also filter by type of vaccine offered, to ensure that people under 18 or their parents can search for locations that only offer the Pfizer vaccine. Users can also call 211 to access the Massachusetts Vaccine Scheduling Resource Line for help booking an appointment.

Massachusetts remains a national leader in vaccinations, ranking #1 in the country for first doses and total doses per capita among states with more than 5 million people, and #2 in these categories among all states. The Commonwealth is focusing on a targeted, community-based approach to reach residents who have not yet received a first dose. There are over 900 locations across the Commonwealth.

The Commonwealth launched the preregistration system on March 12 in partnership with the Google Cloud Team. Since then, nearly 2 million people have preregistered and nearly 600,000 appointments have been scheduled. Many residents preregistered to ensure they would have access to an appointment, but continued to search elsewhere and in many cases opted out of the system after they found an appointment elsewhere. People who preregistered were contacted via email, text messages, and/or robocalls with the opportunity to book appointments.

The Administration has continuously improved the system, adding locations and introducing options for people to choose their vaccination location and edit their submission. Today, people are given the option to choose from among 23 mass vaccination and regional collaborative locations when they are contacted to book an appointment through the preregistration system.

Homebound Vaccination Program: Beginning Monday, May 24, the Administration will expand the state’s Homebound Vaccination Program to support in-home vaccinations for all eligible residents who are unable to get to a vaccine site. This expansion will support continued vaccination of hard-to-reach populations and supports the Administration’s goal to make COVID-19 vaccines readily available.

The Administration launched the Homebound Vaccination on March 29 for individuals who met specific federal criteria, such has requiring significant supports to leave the home for a medical appointment. Beginning May 24, any individual who has trouble getting to a vaccine site is eligible for the homebound program.

Individuals can call (833) 983-0485 to register for an in-home vaccination. The registration phone line is open Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM and has representatives who speak English and Spanish, as well as translation services available in 100+ languages.

After registering, individuals will be called within five business days by the state’s Homebound Vaccine Provider, Commonwealth Care Alliance, to schedule an appointment. It may take some time to get an appointment, and the quickest way to get vaccinated remains to schedule an appointment at a vaccination site by visiting VaxFinder.mass.gov.

The Homebound Program is primarily using Johnson & Johnson vaccines, a safe and effective vaccine that only requires one visit to an individual’s home. For individuals 12-17 years old who are homebound and would need significant support to leave the home to get to a medical appointment, the Homebound Program is offering Pfizer vaccines. Homebound youth are encouraged to register for the Homebound Program by Friday, May 28 to ensure that an in-home vaccination can be scheduled during the month of June.

More information on the Homebound Vaccination Program here.

Baker-Polito Administration to Lift COVID Restrictions May 29, State to Meet Vaccination Goal by Beginning of June

Commonwealth Will Adopt CDC Face Covering Guidance

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 17, 2021

Today, the Baker-Polito Administration announced that the Commonwealth is on track to meet the goal of vaccinating 4.1 million residents by the first week of June and all remaining COVID-19 restrictions will be lifted effective May 29.

The Commonwealth’s face covering order will also be rescinded on May 29. The Department of Public Health will issue a new face covering advisory consistent with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s updated guidance. Face coverings will still be mandatory for all individuals on public and private transportation systems (including rideshares, livery, taxi, ferries, MBTA, Commuter Rail and transportation stations), in healthcare facilities and in other settings hosting vulnerable populations, such as congregate care settings.

Governor Charlie Baker will end the State of Emergency June 15.

The Administration also announced updates that will be effective May 18 to revise face covering requirements for youth and amateur sports and other guidance relating to childcare programs and K-12 schools. The Administration will release updated guidance for summer camps effective May 29.

The Administration is able to take these steps to reopen the Commonwealth’s economy because Massachusetts is on track to meet the goal set in December to fully vaccinate over 4 million individuals by the first week of June. The Commonwealth leads the nation in vaccinating residents, with 75% of adults receiving at least one dose. To date, over 4 million residents have received a first dose, with 3.2 million fully vaccinated.

New cases have dropped by 89% since January 8. COVID hospitalizations are down 88% since January 1 and the positive test rate is down by 88% from peaking at 8.7% on January 1 to 1% today.

Effective May 29

Effective May 29, all industries will be permitted to open. With the exception of remaining face-covering requirements for public and private transportation systems and facilities housing vulnerable populations, all industry restrictions will be lifted, and capacity will increase to 100% for all industries. The gathering limit will be rescinded.

All industries will be encouraged to follow CDC guidance for cleaning and hygiene protocols.

On May 18, 2020, the Administration published the reopening phases, which called for ending restrictions when vaccines became widely available. Today, there are over 975 locations for Massachusetts residents to access vaccines without delay.

Face Covering Guidance

In line with updated CDC face covering guidance, the Administration will rescind the current face covering order and issue a new face covering advisory effective May 29.

Non-vaccinated individuals are advised to continue wearing face masks and to continue distancing in most settings. The advisory will also recommend fully vaccinated individuals no longer need to wear a face covering or social distance indoors or outdoors except for in certain situations.

Face coverings will still be required for all individuals on public and private transportation (including rideshares, livery, taxi, ferries, MBTA, Commuter Rail and transportation stations), healthcare facilities and providers, congregate care settings and health and rehabilitative day services.

Face coverings will also remain required indoors for staff and students of K-12 schools and early education providers.

Link to mask guidance

Youth and Amateur Sports Face Covering Guidance

Effective May 18, the youth and amateur sports guidance will be updated to no longer require face coverings for youth athletes 18 and under while playing outdoor sports. Effective May 29, all youth and amateur sports restrictions will be lifted.

Link to youth sports guidance

K-12, Early Education and Summer Camp Guidance

Effective May 18, guidance from the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education and the Department of Early Education and Care will be updated to no longer require masks for outdoor activities like recess and to allow for the sharing of objects in classrooms, in both K-12 and childcare settings. This guidance will remain in effect beyond May 29.

The Administration will release updated guidance for summer camps, effective May 29, which will include no longer requiring masks for outdoor activities.

Link to DESE guidance

Link to EEC guidance

State of Emergency Order

Governor Baker will end the State of Emergency June 15, and the Administration will work with legislative and municipal partners during this period in order to manage an orderly transition from emergency measures adopted by executive order and special legislation during the period of the State of Emergency.

12 additional positive case of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since May 7, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,954. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. We are still seeing community spread occurring despite vaccination efforts. It is crucial for us to keep our guards up and remain vigilant until herd immunity is achieved. The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are: 😷Wear a mask. 👏Wash your hands. ↔️Keep your distance. 🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces. 🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results. 👨‍🔬Get tested. 💉Vaccine Info: All residents are now eligible and can preregister to book an appointment at a mass vaccination site at mass.gov/COVIDVaccine or dial Mass 2-1-1 for assistance. Residents age 60+ may call the Shrewsbury Senior Center at 508-841-8640 or Mass 2-1-1 for assistance.

COVID-19 Massachusetts Mask Order Still in Effect
On May 13, 2021, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced eased indoor mask-wearing guidance for fully vaccinated people. Please be advised the State of Massachusetts has not lifted the mask order as amended on April 30, 2021 pursuant to Governor's COVID-19 Order #67.

Face coverings are still required at all times in indoor public places.
Face coverings also continue to be required at all times at events, whether held indoors or outdoors and whether held in a public space or private home, except for when eating or drinking.
Face coverings are required outdoors when unable to maintain 6 feet from other people.

People age 12 and older who live, work, or study in Massachusetts can get vaccinated against COVID-19. People ages 12-17 can only get the Pfizer vaccine. People age 18 and older can get any vaccine. The vaccine is safe and effective. You don't need an ID or insurance to get it.

Baker-Polito Administration Announces Employer Vaccination Program, Extension of Targeted free COVID-19 Testing Sites, Provides Weekly Dose Updates

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 12, 2021

The Baker-Polito Administration announced today the Commonwealth’s Employer Vaccination Program, which will allow Massachusetts employers options to easily and conveniently vaccinate their employees.

All detailed information on this program can be found at www.mass.gov/EmployerVaccine. This webpage includes a link to a form that employers should submit to request appointments. There is no financial cost to the employer.

There are two main options for employers:

Option 1: Group appointments at mass vaccination sites.

This is the quickest and easiest option. Appointments will be scheduled starting Monday, May 17, 2021. Employers can request a block of appointments at any of the Commonwealth’s 7 mass vaccination sites.

Employers can help register employees for their appointments or the Commonwealth will provide an employer with links to share with employees so they can sign up during the block of appointments. The minimum number of appointments required is 10 and there is no maximum limit.

Registration requires simple demographic information – insurance and identification are not required at the time of registration or appointment, if not available. Employers can set up a table or kiosk onsite to have an onsite presence for employees which can be coordinated with the site operator after submitting a request.

These sites are easy, fast, and convenient. Most vaccination appointments take less than 30 minutes, including the 15-minute observation period. Employers can request a block of appointments for their employees to be vaccinated on a specific day/time. Employers or employees will be responsible for transportation to and from the vaccination site.

Sites are available 7 days a week, hours vary by site/day. Extensive accessibility accommodations are available and additional special accommodations may be made available upon request (e.g., interpreters). This option will be available through June 30, 2021, with first dose appointments available through June 11, 2021.

For more information on how to book group appointments and to submit an official request form, visit the employer vaccination page at mass.gov/employervaccine. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis.

Option 2: Mobile on-site employer vaccination clinic

Employers who have confirmed that 35 or more employees will obtain a vaccination at the employer pop-up clinic may request a mobile, on-site, vaccination clinic. A vaccination provider will come on-site to the employer host-property to vaccinate individuals and return 3-4 weeks later to deliver 2nd doses. Employers must survey employees and confirm participation prior to requesting a clinic.

In order to schedule an on-site clinic, employers will need to provide:

Address of employer and contact person
Number of employees who have confirmed that they will receive the vaccination
Space for vaccination clinic (inside, outside) and any additional details
Type of appointment registration (i.e., ahead of clinic, day-of), prior registration preferred
Requested date and time
Employer clinics will be scheduled and prioritized based upon number of individuals getting vaccinated and location of the clinic. Employers located in communities with vaccination rates below the state average will be prioritized. On-site clinics will begin as soon as Monday, May 17, 2021.

All details on employer vaccinations options and requirements can be found at www.mass.gov/employervaccine

Additionally, we encourage all employers to remind their employees of the importance of getting vaccinated and of the availability of more than 900 locations across the state. For more information, please check the state’s website at www.mass.gov/covidvaccine.

Weekly Dose Update

This week, the Commonwealth received 245,460 first and second doses as part of the state allocation. These figures do not include doses provided directly from the federal government to the Federal Retail Pharmacy Program, Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHC) or Community Vaccination Center (CVC).

This week, first doses and second dose state allocations (total doses), were distributed among providers as follows:

Health systems and health care providers (excluding community health centers): 81,890

Regional Collaboratives and Local Boards of Health: 57,720

Mass vaccination locations: 97,250

Community Health Centers state allocation only: 7,100

Mobile Clinics supporting long-term care facilities, congregate care, affordable/low-income senior housing and homebound individuals: 1,500

Weekly allocations are subject to change based on federal availability, demand from providers, and obligations to meet second doses. Providers have 10 days to use their doses and must meet specific performance thresholds.

Federal Doses:

In addition to the state allocation, the federal government has increased its distribution of vaccines to CVS Health sites as part of the Federal Retail Pharmacy Partnership as well as to certain Massachusetts federally qualified community health centers. These quantities fluctuate on a weekly basis and are not counted as part of the state’s weekly allocation but represent an increasing allocation to selected locations.

This week, 112,240 first and second doses were allocated to the retail pharmacy program.

FQHCs received 30,200 doses directly from the Federal Government.

The Community Vaccination Clinic at the Hynes Convention Center was allocated 42,120 doses.

Extension of Stop the Spread Testing Initiative:

The “Stop the Spread” COVID-19 initiative, which provides free COVID-19 testing in 35 locations across the Commonwealth and was set to close on June 30, 2021 has been extended through September 30, 2021.

Building on Massachusetts’ nation-leading COVID-19 testing program, state-sponsored testing will continue to be available to all Massachusetts residents at no cost to them through September 30, 2021 Testing is one of the important public health tools, in addition to contact tracing, complying with public health mitigation measures and getting vaccinated, to mitigate the spread of COVID-19.

Since the state began this free virus testing in July 2020, more than 2.3 million tests have been conducted at “Stop the Spread” locations as of March 3, 2021. Meanwhile, the total number of COVID-19 tests conducted state-wide at all testing providers since the pandemic began is more than 22 million.

The Stop the Spread initiative is a data-driven effort to reduce the prevalence of COVID-19 in communities across the Commonwealth. All state residents may visit the locations even if they do not reside in the town or city where the testing is being conducted.

The statewide 7-day average of percent positivity for COVID-19 of individuals tested as reported on Monday, May 10th, was 1.26%.

Residents of the state may visit the following website to find testing locations: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/find-a-covid-19-test. Additional information about COVID-19 testing, including why testing is important and what you should do if your test is positive, can be found at www.mass.gov/GetTested.

Baker-Polito Administration Announces Reopening of Additional Phase 4 Industries to Go Into Effect May 10, 2021

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 7, 2021

The Baker-Polito Administration announced that Massachusetts will move forward in the Commonwealth's reopening plan to reopen certain outdoor Phase 4 industries effective May 10, 2021, as previously announced. The Administration continues to take steps to reopen the Commonwealth's economy with public health metrics continuing to trend in a positive direction.

On March 22, 2021 Massachusetts loosened restrictions and advanced to Phase IV of the Commonwealth’s reopening plan. Since then, daily new COVID-19 cases have dropped by 45%, hospitalizations have dropped by 23%, and deaths have dropped by 69%. All these metrics have dropped by around 80% or more since the beginning of the year. The Commonwealth also remains a national leader in COVID-19 vaccinations, and over 3.9 million people are fully or partially vaccinated, and Massachusetts is on track to meet its goal of vaccinating over 4 million people by the beginning of June.

Effective Monday, May 10, 2021:

The Commonwealth will reopen certain outdoor Phase 4 industries.

Amusement parks, theme parks and outdoor water parks will be permitted to operate at a 50% capacity after submitting safety plans to the Department of Public Health.

Road races and other large, outdoor organized amateur or professional group athletic events will be permitted to take place with staggered starts and other appropriate safety measures after submitting safety plans to a local board of health or the DPH.
Additionally, large capacity venues such as indoor and outdoor stadiums, arenas and ballparks currently open at 12% capacity as part of Phase 4, Step 1 will be permitted to increase capacity to 25%.

Youth and adult amateur sports tournaments will be allowed for moderate and high-risk sports.

Singing will also be permitted indoors with strict distancing requirements at performance venues, restaurants, event venues and other businesses.

Grocery stores and retail stores with a pharmacy department should consider dedicated hours of operation for seniors, but will no longer be required to offer senior hours.

Additional Changes Anticipated to be Effective Saturday, May 29, 2021:

Contingent on continued positive trends in the public health and vaccination data, on May 29, 2021, additional sectors will be permitted to re-open and gathering limits will increase to 200 people indoors and 250 people outdoors for event venues, public settings and private settings.

The additional sectors that will be permitted to open include:

Parades, street festivals and agricultural festivals, after submitting safety plans to the local board of health including measures for maintaining social distance, staffing and operations plans and hygiene and cleaning protocols.

Bars, beer gardens, breweries, wineries and distilleries, which will be subject to restaurant rules with seated service only, a 90 minute limit and no dance floors.
Subject to public health and vaccination data, the restaurant guidance will be updated to eliminate the requirement that food be served with alcohol and to increase the maximum table size to 10.

Last week, the Administration also relaxed the Face Coverings Order for some outdoor settings and announced further reopening plans for August 1, 2021.

For more information, visit mass.gov/reopening.

3 additional positive case of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since May 6, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,942. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. We are still seeing community spread occurring despite vaccination efforts. It is crucial for us to keep our guards up and remain vigilant until herd immunity is achieved. The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are: 😷Wear a mask. 👏Wash your hands. ↔️Keep your distance. 🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces. 🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results. 👨‍🔬Get tested. 💉Vaccine Info: All residents are now eligible and can preregister to book an appointment at a mass vaccination site at mass.gov/COVIDVaccine or dial Mass 2-1-1 for assistance. Residents age 60+ may call the Shrewsbury Senior Center at 508-841-8640 or Mass 2-1-1 for assistance.

1 additional positive case of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since May 5, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,939. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. We are still seeing community spread occurring despite vaccination efforts. It is crucial for us to keep our guards up and remain vigilant until herd immunity is achieved. The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are: 😷Wear a mask. 👏Wash your hands. ↔️Keep your distance. 🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces. 🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results. 👨‍🔬Get tested. 💉Vaccine Info: All residents are now eligible and can preregister to book an appointment at a mass vaccination site at mass.gov/COVIDVaccine or dial Mass 2-1-1 for assistance. Residents age 60+ may call the Shrewsbury Senior Center at 508-841-8640 or Mass 2-1-1 for assistance.

The Baker-Polito Administrative Announces New Walk-up Options at MA Vaccination Sites, Provides Weekly Dose Update.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 5, 2021

The Baker-Polito Administration today announced that beginning next week, most of the Commonwealth’s mass vaccination sites will open for walk-up appointments. The Administration also provided the weekly update on the state’s allocation of vaccines received from the federal government.

The Administration, CIC Health, FEMA and other partners also announced a new milestone of 250,000 doses administered at the FEMA supported Community Vaccination Clinic at the Hynes Convention Center.

Mass Vaccination Sites Open for Walk Ups:
Beginning Monday, May 10, 2021, six of the Commonwealth’s mass vaccination sites will open for walk up vaccination. These sites include the Hynes Convention Center, the Reggie Lewis Center in Roxbury, the Double Tree in Danvers, the former Circuit City in Dartmouth, the Eastfield Mall in Springfield and the Natick Mall.

Residents should still go to VaxFinder to find a location near them and plan their vaccination. Residents will be able to use each site’s VaxFinder listing to either book appointments or view more details about walk-up appointments. VaxFinder also lists important information like each site’s accessibility options, MBTA Trip Planner and more. Over 500 locations have open availability on VaxFinder.

Weekly Dose Update:
This week, the Commonwealth received 381,970 first and second doses as part of the state allocation. These figures do not include doses provided directly from the federal government to the Federal Retail Pharmacy Program, Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHC) or Community Vaccination Center (CVC).

This week, first doses and second dose state allocations (total doses), were distributed among providers as follows:

Health systems and health care providers (excluding community health centers): 153,340
Regional Collaboratives and Local Boards of Health: 91,340
Mass vaccination locations: 118,080
Community Health Centers state allocation only: 12,110
Retail pharmacies (non-CVS) state allocation only: 3,500
Mobile Clinics supporting long-term care facilities, congregate care, affordable/low-income senior housing and homebound individuals: 3,400
Weekly allocations are subject to change based on federal availability, demand from providers, and obligations to meet second doses. Providers have 10 days to use their doses and must meet specific performance thresholds.

Federal Doses:
In addition to the state allocation, the federal government has increased its distribution of vaccines to CVS Health sites as part of the Federal Retail Pharmacy Partnership as well as to certain Massachusetts federally qualified community health centers. These quantities fluctuate on a weekly basis and are not counted as part of the state’s weekly allocation but represent an increasing allocation to selected locations.

This week, 130,080 first and second doses were allocated to the retail pharmacy program.

FQHCs received 42,210 doses directly from the Federal Government.

The Community Vaccination Clinic at the Hynes Convention Center was allocated 42,120 doses.

The Baker-Polito Administrative Announces New Walk-up Options at MA Vaccination Sites, Provides Weekly Dose Update.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 5, 2021

The Baker-Polito Administration today announced that beginning next week, most of the Commonwealth’s mass vaccination sites will open for walk-up appointments. The Administration also provided the weekly update on the state’s allocation of vaccines received from the federal government.

The Administration, CIC Health, FEMA and other partners also announced a new milestone of 250,000 doses administered at the FEMA supported Community Vaccination Clinic at the Hynes Convention Center.

Mass Vaccination Sites Open for Walk Ups:
Beginning Monday, May 10, 2021, six of the Commonwealth’s mass vaccination sites will open for walk up vaccination. These sites include the Hynes Convention Center, the Reggie Lewis Center in Roxbury, the Double Tree in Danvers, the former Circuit City in Dartmouth, the Eastfield Mall in Springfield and the Natick Mall.

Residents should still go to VaxFinder to find a location near them and plan their vaccination. Residents will be able to use each site’s VaxFinder listing to either book appointments or view more details about walk-up appointments. VaxFinder also lists important information like each site’s accessibility options, MBTA Trip Planner and more. Over 500 locations have open availability on VaxFinder.

Weekly Dose Update:
This week, the Commonwealth received 381,970 first and second doses as part of the state allocation. These figures do not include doses provided directly from the federal government to the Federal Retail Pharmacy Program, Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHC) or Community Vaccination Center (CVC).

This week, first doses and second dose state allocations (total doses), were distributed among providers as follows:

Health systems and health care providers (excluding community health centers): 153,340
Regional Collaboratives and Local Boards of Health: 91,340
Mass vaccination locations: 118,080
Community Health Centers state allocation only: 12,110
Retail pharmacies (non-CVS) state allocation only: 3,500
Mobile Clinics supporting long-term care facilities, congregate care, affordable/low-income senior housing and homebound individuals: 3,400
Weekly allocations are subject to change based on federal availability, demand from providers, and obligations to meet second doses. Providers have 10 days to use their doses and must meet specific performance thresholds.

Federal Doses:
In addition to the state allocation, the federal government has increased its distribution of vaccines to CVS Health sites as part of the Federal Retail Pharmacy Partnership as well as to certain Massachusetts federally qualified community health centers. These quantities fluctuate on a weekly basis and are not counted as part of the state’s weekly allocation but represent an increasing allocation to selected locations.

This week, 130,080 first and second doses were allocated to the retail pharmacy program.

FQHCs received 42,210 doses directly from the Federal Government.

The Community Vaccination Clinic at the Hynes Convention Center was allocated 42,120 doses.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 3, 2021

Massachusetts set to vaccinate 4.1 million people by the beginning of June 2021.

On May 3, 2021, Governor Charlie Baker and Lt. Governor Karyn Polito were joined by Secretary of Health & Human Services Marylou Sudders and Massachusetts General Hospital Center for Disaster Medicine Director Dr. Paul Biddinger to discuss the Commonwealth’s vaccine progress and outline the next phase of vaccine distribution.

In December, the Baker-Polito Administration set a goal of vaccinating approximately four million people in the Commonwealth. According to the CDC’s vaccine data, 3.9 million people in Massachusetts have been fully or partially vaccinated as of today. Another 180,000 people are scheduled to get their first dose in the next 7 days.

Altogether, 4.1 million are set to be fully vaccinated by the beginning of June —reaching the administration’s initial goal and representing a significant achievement for the Commonwealth.

Next Phase of the Commonwealth’s Vaccination Efforts: More Targeted, Community-Based Options

Massachusetts is a national leader for vaccine distribution across every national metric. As a result of the state’s efforts, hospitalizations and new positive cases decreased — particularly among our most vulnerable residents.

While reaching 4.1 million residents vaccinated represents progress, the administration will continue to adapt vaccine efforts to be more targeted and will shift vaccines to smaller scale operations focusing on certain populations and specific communities—such as the Commonwealth’s 20 most disproportionately impacted communities.

This next phase of the Commonwealth’s vaccine efforts will include:

Providing all 22 regional collaboratives with doses to fully operate their programs.
Doubling the state vaccine allocation for our 20 most disproportionately impacted communities.
Working with the Mass Medical Society to increase access of vaccines with additional primary care providers by mid-May. This effort will require affirming complex storage and scheduling logistics to ensure all doses are put to good use.
Expanding mobile vaccine clinics in our 20 most disproportionately impacted communities at senior centers, houses of worship and other community-based organizations.
Working with current providers and community partners to offer new vaccine clinic opportunities.
Over 21,000 doses have been administered through mobile vaccination clinics in Boston, Chelsea, Brockton, Fall River, Springfield and New Bedford. Mobile clinics have been particularly effective in our equity communities and to reach people of color. So far, 61% of vaccine recipients at these clinics have been people of color.

New vaccine clinic opportunities have already started to be stood up. Some examples include:

The Metro North Regional Collaborative’s three new clinics at the Encore Casino in Everett, Tufts Campus in Medford and at the Cambridge Health Alliance location in Somerville.
Boston Medical Center’s new vaccine scheduling location at the South Bay Shopping Center.
Mobile clinics in Lynn, New Bedford, Worcester and Fall River at local churches and temples in different languages.
The City of Brockton’s clinic at the Westgate Mall and at different municipal housing complexes.
Mass Vaccination Sites & Pre-Registration

The Baker-Polito Administration will also begin to transition or ramp down the state’s seven mass vaccination sites. Mass vaccination sites have played a critical role in the Commonwealth’s vaccination process in a very short period of time.

At the mass vaccination sites, the Commonwealth has administered 1.2 million doses and fully vaccinated 470,000 people since the first site opened at Gillette Stadium on January 18th. The state expects to administer around 250,000 second doses in May and another 180,000 first doses across all providers over the next seven days.

With millions of people vaccinated, the demand for high throughput mass vaccination sites will gradually decline, and more vaccines will be dispersed more widely across communities.

The administration will gradually close four out of the state’s seven mass vaccination sites by the end of June (Gillette Stadium, Hynes Convention Center, Double Tree in Danvers & the Natick Mall).

We will soon begin to accept walk-ins at select mass vaccination sites. Information about availability for walk-ups will be reflected on VaxFinder.mass.gov soon.

Appointments for some sites will also be available at VaxFinder.mass.gov or by calling 211.

Since the pre-registration system was launched, over 1.8 million people registered and have been offered an appointment at least twice.

In the coming weeks, the state is anticipating that the CDC may authorize vaccines for children ages 12-15, and we will keep pre-registration available for parents who may want to bring kids to a mass vaccination site.

More details to come when the CDC determines the next steps on this.

3 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since May 4, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,938. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. We are still seeing community spread occurring despite vaccination efforts. It is crucial for us to keep our guards up and remain vigilant until herd immunity is achieved. The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are: 😷Wear a mask. 👏Wash your hands. ↔️Keep your distance. 🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces. 🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results. 👨‍🔬Get tested. 💉Vaccine Info: All residents are now eligible and can preregister to book an appointment at a mass vaccination site at mass.gov/COVIDVaccine or dial Mass 2-1-1 for assistance. Residents age 60+ may call the Shrewsbury Senior Center at 508-841-8640 or Mass 2-1-1 for assistance.

2 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since May 3, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,935. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. We are still seeing community spread occurring despite vaccination efforts. It is crucial for us to keep our guards up and remain vigilant until herd immunity is achieved. The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are: 😷Wear a mask. 👏Wash your hands. ↔️Keep your distance. 🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces. 🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results. 👨‍🔬Get tested. 💉Vaccine Info: All residents are now eligible and can preregister to book an appointment at a mass vaccination site at mass.gov/COVIDVaccine or dial Mass 2-1-1 for assistance. Residents age 60+ may call the Shrewsbury Senior Center at 508-841-8640 or Mass 2-1-1 for assistance.

Worcester State University command informed us there are many appointments available.

The Regional Collaborative Site at Worcester State University’s Wellness Center, a collaboration between the University, Saint Vincent Hospital and Commonwealth Medicine, has more than 2,000 vaccination appointments available this week. The Pfizer vaccine is being administered.

This is the direct link to The Regional Collaborative Site at Worcester State University’s Wellness Center - https://www.maimmunizations.org/clinic/search?location=&search_radius=All&q%5Bvenue_search_name_or_venue_name_i_cont%5D=saint&clinic_date_eq%5Byear%5D=&clinic_date_eq%5Bmonth%5D=&clinic_date_eq%5Bday%5D=&q%5Bvaccinations_name_i_cont%5D=&commit=Search#search_results#search_results

2 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since April 29, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,933. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. We are still seeing community spread occurring despite vaccination efforts. It is crucial for us to keep our guards up and remain vigilant until herd immunity is achieved. The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are: 😷Wear a mask. 👏Wash your hands. ↔️Keep your distance. 🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces. 🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results. 👨‍🔬Get tested. 💉Vaccine Info: All residents are now eligible and can preregister to book an appointment at a mass vaccination site at mass.gov/COVIDVaccine or dial Mass 2-1-1 for assistance. Residents age 60+ may call the Shrewsbury Senior Center at 508-841-8640 or Mass 2-1-1 for assistance.

0 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since April 29, 2021. The cumulative total remains 2,931. The Central Massachusetts Regional Public Health Alliance has provided demographic and vaccination data. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. We are still seeing community spread occurring despite vaccination efforts. It is crucial for us to keep our guards up and remain vigilant until herd immunity is achieved. The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are: 😷Wear a mask. 👏Wash your hands. ↔️Keep your distance. 🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces. 🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results. 👨‍🔬Get tested. 💉Vaccine Info: All residents are now eligible and can preregister to book an appointment at a mass vaccination site at mass.gov/COVIDVaccine or dial Mass 2-1-1 for assistance. Residents age 60+ may call the Shrewsbury Senior Center at 508-841-8640 or Mass 2-1-1 for assistance.

Face Coverings Order:



Effective April 30th, the Face Coverings Order will be relaxed for some outdoor settings.



Face coverings will only be required outside in public when it is not possible to socially distance, and at other times required by sector-specific guidance.



Face coverings will still be required at all times in indoor public places. Face coverings will also continue to be required at all times at events, whether held indoors or outdoors and whether held in a public space or private home, except for when eating or drinking.



At smaller gatherings in private homes, face coverings are recommended but not required. The $300 fine as an enforcement mechanism will be eliminated.

3 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since April 28, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,931. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. We are still seeing community spread occurring despite vaccination efforts. It is crucial for us to keep our guards up and remain vigilant until herd immunity is achieved. The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are: 😷Wear a mask. 👏Wash your hands. ↔️Keep your distance. 🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces. 🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results. 👨‍🔬Get tested. 💉Vaccine Info: All residents are now eligible and can preregister to book an appointment at a mass vaccination site at mass.gov/COVIDVaccine or dial Mass 2-1-1 for assistance. Residents age 60+ may call the Shrewsbury Senior Center at 508-841-8640 or Mass 2-1-1 for assistance.

11 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since April 27, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,928. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. We are still seeing community spread occurring despite vaccination efforts. It is crucial for us to keep our guards up and remain vigilant until herd immunity is achieved. The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are: 😷Wear a mask. 👏Wash your hands. ↔️Keep your distance. 🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces. 🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results. 👨‍🔬Get tested. 💉Vaccine Info: All residents are now eligible and can preregister to book an appointment at a mass vaccination site at mass.gov/COVIDVaccine or dial Mass 2-1-1 for assistance. Residents age 60+ may call the Shrewsbury Senior Center at 508-841-8640 or Mass 2-1-1 for assistance.

Town Hall will be reopening to the public on May 5, 2021 by appointment only for services that cannot be handled online or over the phone. Appointments will be scheduled by individual departments on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays between the hours of 9:00 am - 12:00 pm and 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm.

The COA is welcoming residents back at the Senior center for outdoor activities beginning no May 10, 2021 with restrooms available. There will be seating under tents and tables with umbrellas. There will be sanitizing materials available.

The Library will begin the next phase of expanded library services starting on May 17, 2021. The Library will continue to provide patrons access to items from their collection and items requested through inter-library loan and computer/printer/copier services. In addition to this, patrons may browse materials in the eastern wing of the library.

Visit https://shrewsburyma.gov/civicalerts.aspx?AID=2856 for more information on reopening guidelines for Shrewsbury town offices.

6 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since April 26, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,917. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. We are still seeing community spread occurring despite vaccination efforts. It is crucial for us to keep our guards up and remain vigilant until herd immunity is achieved. The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are: 😷Wear a mask. 👏Wash your hands. ↔️Keep your distance. 🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces. 🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results. 👨‍🔬Get tested. 💉Vaccine Info: All residents are now eligible and can preregister to book an appointment at a mass vaccination site at mass.gov/COVIDVaccine or dial Mass 2-1-1 for assistance. Residents age 60+ may call the Shrewsbury Senior Center at 508-841-8640 or Mass 2-1-1 for assistance.

Today, the Baker-Polito Administration announced that Massachusetts will reopen some outdoor Phase 4, Step 2 industries effective May 10, 2021 and put plans in place for further reopening on May 29, 2021 and August 1, 2021. The Administration continues to take steps to reopen the Commonwealth's economy with public health metrics continuing to trend in a positive direction. This includes drops in average daily COVID cases and hospitalizations. Massachusetts remains first in the nation for first vaccine doses and total doses administered per capita, among states with more than 5 million people. The Administration will also relax the Face Coverings Order for some outdoor settings, effective April 30, 2021.

PRESS RELEASE: APRIL 27, 2021

Phase IV, Step 2 Industries and Gathering Changes:

On March 22, 2021, Massachusetts loosened capacity restrictions and advanced to Step 1 of Phase IV of the reopening plan. Since then, case rates dropped by 20%. The positivity rate has dropped to the lowest levels recorded since last summer.


Effective April 30, 2021

Face Coverings Order:

The Face Coverings Order will be relaxed for some outdoor settings.

Face coverings will only be required outside in public when it is not possible to socially distance, and at other times required by sector-specific guidance.

Face coverings will still be required at all times in indoor public places. Face coverings will also continue to be required at all times at events, whether held indoors or outdoors and whether held in a public space or private home, except for when eating or drinking.

At smaller gatherings in private homes, face coverings are recommended but not required. The $300 fine as an enforcement mechanism will be eliminated.


Effective May 10, 2021:

Large venues such as indoor and outdoor stadiums, arenas and ballparks currently open as part of Phase 4, Step 1 at 12% will be permitted to increase capacity to 25%.

The Commonwealth will reopen some outdoor Phase 4, Step 2 industries including amusement parks, theme parks and outdoor water parks that will be permitted to operate at a 50% capacity after submitting safety plans to the Department of Public Health.

Road races and other large, outdoor organized amateur or professional group athletic events will be permitted to take place with staggered starts after submitting safety plans to a local board of health or the DPH.

Youth and adult amateur sports tournaments will be allowed for moderate and high risk sports.

Singing will also be permitted indoors with strict distancing requirements at performance venues, restaurants, event venues and other businesses.


Effective May 29, 2021:

Subject to public health and vaccination data, gathering limits will increase to 200 people indoors and 250 people outdoors for event venues, public settings and private settings.

Subject to public health and vaccination data, additional Phase 4, Step 2 industries will be permitted to open including:

Street festivals, parades and agricultural festivals, at 50% of their previous capacity and after submitting safety plans to the local board of health.
Bars, beer gardens, breweries, wineries and distilleries, will be subject to restaurant rules with seated service only, a 90 minute limit and no dance floors.
Subject to public health and vaccination data, the restaurant guidance will be updated to eliminate the requirement that food be served with alcohol and to increase the maximum table size to 10.


Effective August 1, 2021:

Subject to public health and vaccination data, remaining industries will be permitted to open including:

Dance clubs, and nightclubs
Saunas, hot-tubs, steam rooms at fitness centers, health clubs and other facilities
Indoor water parks
Ball pits
All industry restrictions will be lifted at that time, and capacity will increase to 100% for all industries, with businesses encouraged to continue following best practices. The gathering limit will be rescinded.

Depending on vaccine distribution and public health data, the Administration may consider re-evaluating the August 1st date.

The Department of Public Health will also continue to issue guidance as needed, including guidance to still require masks indoors.

For more information, visit mass.gov/reopening.

FDA and CDC Lift Recommended Pause on Johnson & Johnson (Janssen) COVID-19

Massachusetts Providers May Resume Use

Dear Massachusetts Providers:

Following the CDC’s decision today to resume use of the Johnson & Johnson (Janssen) COVID-19 vaccine, all providers may resume administration of the J&J vaccine, effective immediately.

The pause was recommended after reports of six cases of a rare and severe type of blood clot in individuals following administration of the Janssen COVID-19 Vaccine. Following a thorough safety review, including two meetings of the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have determined that the recommended pause regarding the use of the Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) COVID-19 Vaccine in the U.S. should be lifted and use of the vaccine should resume.

Providers should review the Janssen COVID-19 Vaccine Fact Sheet for Healthcare Providers Administering Vaccine (Vaccination Providers) and Fact Sheet for Recipients and Caregivers, which have been revised to include information about the risk of this rare type of blood clot, which has occurred in a very small number of people who have received the Janssen COVID-19 Vaccine.

More in the CDC news release: https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2021/fda-cdc-lift-vaccine-use.html.

6 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since April 23, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,911. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. We are still seeing community spread occurring despite vaccination efforts. It is crucial for us to keep our guards up and remain vigilant until herd immunity is achieved. The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are: 😷Wear a mask. 👏Wash your hands. ↔️Keep your distance. 🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces. 🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results. 👨‍🔬Get tested. 💉Vaccine Info: All residents are now eligible and can preregister to book an appointment at a mass vaccination site at mass.gov/COVIDVaccine or dial Mass 2-1-1 for assistance. Residents age 60+ may call the Shrewsbury Senior Center at 508-841-8640 or Mass 2-1-1 for assistance.

5 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since April 22, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,905. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. We are still seeing community spread occurring despite vaccination efforts. It is crucial for us to keep our guards up and remain vigilant until herd immunity is achieved. The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are: 😷Wear a mask. 👏Wash your hands. ↔️Keep your distance. 🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces. 🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results. 👨‍🔬Get tested. 💉Vaccine Info: All residents are now eligible and can preregister to book an appointment at a mass vaccination site at mass.gov/COVIDVaccine or dial Mass 2-1-1 for assistance. Residents age 60+ may call the Shrewsbury Senior Center at 508-841-8640 or Mass 2-1-1 for assistance.

6 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since April 21, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,900. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. We are still seeing community spread occurring despite vaccination efforts. It is crucial for us to keep our guards up and remain vigilant until herd immunity is achieved. The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are: 😷Wear a mask. 👏Wash your hands. ↔️Keep your distance. 🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces. 🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results. 👨‍🔬Get tested. 💉Vaccine Info:All residents are now eligible and can preregister to book an appointment at a mass vaccination site at mass.gov/COVIDVaccine or dial Mass 2-1-1 for assistance. Residents age 60+ may call the Shrewsbury Senior Center at 508-841-8640 or Mass 2-1-1 for assistance.

The Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) recently launched the Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP), a new funding mechanism to disburse state and federal funding resources for tenants and landlords to avoid evictions and maintain household stability throughout the COVID-19 emergency. ERAP is available to households earning less than 80% AMI, and includes enhanced benefits, including:

Renters and landlords may receive up to 12 months of assistance with past due rent, plus up to 3 months of future rent. Please call 2-1-1 or connect directly with your regional agency through our online portal. For more information, please check out our website.

-Renters may also receive up to $1,500 for overdue utilities accrued after March 13, 2020.
-Along with the enhanced ERAP benefits, tenants and landlords may be able to access free legal and mediation services offered through the Eviction Diversion Initiative.

Free legal services are available to eligible tenants and low-income landlords in owner-occupied 2-3 family homes through the COVID Eviction Legal Help Program (CELHP). 

Free community mediation services for eligible tenants and landlords who need help in reaching agreements that work for both of them.

7 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since April 20, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,894. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. We are still seeing community spread occurring despite vaccination efforts. It is crucial for us to keep our guards up and remain vigilant until herd immunity is achieved. The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are: 😷Wear a mask. 👏Wash your hands. ↔️Keep your distance. 🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces. 🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results. 👨‍🔬Get tested. 💉Vaccine Info:All residents are now eligible and can preregister to book an appointment at a mass vaccination site at mass.gov/COVIDVaccine or dial Mass 2-1-1 for assistance. Residents age 60+ may call the Shrewsbury Senior Center at 508-841-8640 or Mass 2-1-1 for assistance.

VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System expanded its COVID-19 vaccinations to all Veterans, caregivers, spouses, and some other beneficiaries under the authority granted by the SAVE LIVES Act, signed by President Joe Biden on March 24, 2021.

If you believe you are eligible under the SAVES LIVES Act to receive a vaccine, please visit www.va.gov/covid-19-vaccine to register. Your local VA Medical Center will contact you when additional vaccine is available. The VA is vaccinating all individuals in the categories listed above regardless of age or any other factor. Eligible persons may also call to set up an appointment by dialing 413-582-3110.

Once your appointment is scheduled, COVID-19 Vaccine Clinics are primarily held at our main campus in Leeds, and our Community-Based Outpatient Clinics in Springfield, Worcester, Greenfield, Fitchburg, and Pittsfield. VA Central Western Mass has also held multiple clinics in the community, and plans to continue to coordinate with municipal and state agencies to bring vaccines when they are available to community sites. To maintain continued health and safety during the pandemic, please do not visit a VA facility for a COVID-19 vaccine without first setting up an appointment, or if the venue specifically states they are accepting ‘walk-ins.” While walk-in clinics have been held, vaccine supplies and enrollment coordination require that appointments primarily be used to effectively administer and track the vaccines.

To receive updates on VACWM’s vaccine efforts, please visit our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/VACWMASS. You can also sign up with the VA’s ‘Keep Me Informed” tool here: www.va.gov/health-care/covid-19-vaccine/stay-informed.

For more information, please contact the VA Central Western Massachusetts Public Affairs Officer - Andre Bowser via telephone at: 413-333-6602 or via e-mail at: Andre.Bowser@VA.gov

15 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since April 16, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,887. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. We are still seeing community spread occurring despite vaccination efforts. It is crucial for us to keep our guards up and remain vigilant until herd immunity is achieved. The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are: 😷Wear a mask. 👏Wash your hands. ↔️Keep your distance. 🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces. 🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results. 👨‍🔬Get tested. 💉Vaccine Info:All residents can preregister to book an appointment at a mass vaccination site at mass.gov/COVIDVaccine or dial Mass 2-1-1 for assistance. Residents age 60+ may call the Shrewsbury Senior Center at 508-841-8640 or Mass 2-1-1 for assistance.

4 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since April 15, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,872. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. We are still seeing community spread occurring despite vaccination efforts. It is crucial for us to keep our guards up and remain vigilant until herd immunity is achieved. The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are: 😷Wear a mask. 👏Wash your hands. ↔️Keep your distance. 🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces. 🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results. 👨‍🔬Get tested. 💉Vaccine Info:All residents can preregister to book an appointment at a mass vaccination site at mass.gov/COVIDVaccine or dial Mass 2-1-1 for assistance. Residents age 60+ may call the Shrewsbury Senior Center at 508-841-8640 or Mass 2-1-1 for assistance.

4 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since April 14, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,868. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. We are still seeing community spread occurring despite vaccination efforts. It is crucial for us to keep our guards up and remain vigilant until herd immunity is achieved. The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are: 😷Wear a mask. 👏Wash your hands. ↔️Keep your distance. 🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces. 🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results. 👨‍🔬Get tested. 💉Vaccine Info:All residents can preregister to book an appointment at a mass vaccination site at mass.gov/COVIDVaccine or dial Mass 2-1-1 for assistance. Residents age 60+ may call the Shrewsbury Senior Center at 508-841-8640 or Mass 2-1-1 for assistance.

The Baker-Polito Administration announced Targeted Equity Partnership with Boston Red Sox/Community Partners, Allocation Update and Additional Sites on Pre-registration System.

PRESS RELEASE: April 14, 2021

Today, April 14, 2021, the Baker-Polito Administration announced “Red Sox Week” at the Hynes Convention Center to increase access to vaccines for disproportionately impacted communities. The Administration also provided an update on vaccine dose allocations for the week and announced additional regional collaboratives that will now be available for booking appointments on the Commonwealth’s pre-registration system.

Red Sox Week:
The Baker- Polito Administration, in partnership with the Boston Red Sox, The BASE, El Mundo, CIC Health, and FEMA, has kicked-off a week-long initiative to boost vaccine access to populations disproportionately impacted by COVID-19. Red Sox Week at the Hynes will take place from April 19th to the 25th, with 20,000 first dose vaccination appointments being booked for communities of color. Grassroots outreach efforts began this week in Equity Communities to fill the appointments. Appointments are being scheduled through grassroots outreach efforts by community partners including the Red Sox Foundation, El Mundo, The BASE, Archipelago Strategies Group, Healthcare for All, and Boston Public Health Commission.

Red Sox Week at the Hynes is dedicated to creating a positive vaccination experience that celebrates and honors the diverse cultures across the Commonwealth. Red Sox Week at the Hynes will include bi-lingual Spanish-speaking staff and volunteers, added Spanish signage to help direct guests through the onsite registration and vaccination process as well as Red Sox themed attractions including: a selfie station, Red Sox trophies, socially-distanced visits with Wally the Green Monster and a raffle to win tickets to a Red Sox game.

Residents who have their second doses scheduled for the Hynes next week will have their appointments honored.

Allocation Update:
This week, the Commonwealth received 353,660 first and second doses the state’s allocation. These figures do not include doses provided directly from the federal government to the Federal Retail Pharmacy Program, Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHC) or Community Vaccination Center (CVC).

These numbers include 12,400 J&J doses that have been paused in accordance with FDA and CDC guidance.

This week, first doses and second dose state allocations (total doses), were distributed among providers as follows:

Health systems and health care providers (excluding community health centers): 129,300

Regional Collaboratives and Local Boards of Health: 66,500

Mass vaccination locations: 121,520

Community Health Centers state allocation only: 21,640

Retail pharmacies (non-CVS) state allocation only: 8,000

Mobile Clinics supporting long-term care facilities, congregate care, affordable/low-income senior housing and homebound individuals: 6,400

Weekly allocations are subject to change based on federal availability, demand from providers, and obligations to meet second doses. Providers have 10 days to use their doses and must meet specific performance thresholds.

Federal Doses:
In addition to the state allocation, the federal government has distributed over 270,000 vaccines to CVS Health sites as part of the Federal Retail Pharmacy Partnership as well as to certain Massachusetts federally qualified community health centers.

This week, 130,510 first and second doses were allocated to the retail pharmacy program.

23 FQHCs received 57,610 doses directly from the Federal Government.

The Community Vaccination Clinic at the Hynes Convention Center was allocated 84,240 doses.

These quantities also include J&J doses that have been put on pause, per FDA and CDC recommendation.

Regional Collaboratives:
This week, four additional regional collaboratives will be added to the preregistration booking system. The Northborough, West Springfield, Palmer and Northampton regional collaboratives will be available for preregistration later this week.

Additionally, users now have the opportunity to select their vaccination location before selecting from available appointments. Once a user receives a booking link or code, they will proceed to a page similar to the Commonwealth’s VaxFinder tool. Users will be able to select the vaccination location that works best for them, and then view and select available appointments for that location.

To date, over 1.6 million people have preregistered using the state’s system, with around 1 million having been contacted with the opportunity to book appointments. The Administration will continue to make improvements to the system in the weeks ahead, to make the process even easier as more people become eligible.





The Commonwealth’s preregistration system makes it easier to request and schedule an appointment. People can preregister for a COVID-19 vaccine appointment at a mass vaccination or certain regional collaborative locations only. More locations will continue to be added.

Once you sign up for preregistration, you’ll receive weekly status updates. You can opt out at any time if you find an appointment elsewhere.

Due to constrained federal supply, it will take several weeks to be notified about available appointments. Once an appointment is available, you’ll be contacted with the opportunity to book the appointment and have 24 hours to accept it.

7 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since April 13, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,864. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. We are still seeing community spread occurring despite vaccination efforts. It is crucial for us to keep our guards up and remain vigilant until herd immunity is achieved. The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are: 😷Wear a mask. 👏Wash your hands. ↔️Keep your distance. 🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces. 🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results. 👨‍🔬Get tested. 💉Vaccine Info:All residents can preregister to book an appointment at a mass vaccination site at mass.gov/COVIDVaccine or dial Mass 2-1-1 for assistance. Residents age 60+ may call the Shrewsbury Senior Center at 508-841-8640 or Mass 2-1-1 for assistance.

10 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since April 12, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,857. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. We are still seeing community spread occurring despite vaccination efforts. It is crucial for us to keep our guards up and remain vigilant until herd immunity is achieved. The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are: 😷Wear a mask. 👏Wash your hands. ↔️Keep your distance. 🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces. 🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results. 👨‍🔬Get tested. 💉Vaccine Info:All residents can preregister to book an appointment at a mass vaccination site at mass.gov/COVIDVaccine or dial Mass 2-1-1 for assistance. Residents age 60+ may call the Shrewsbury Senior Center at 508-841-8640 or Mass 2-1-1 for assistance.

Today, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a statement regarding the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine recommending a pause in its use out of an abundance of caution.

The Department of Public Health is notifying all Massachusetts providers to pause administration of the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine, effective immediately.

20 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since April 9, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,847.

We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. We are still seeing community spread occurring despite vaccination efforts. It is crucial for us to keep our guards up and remain vigilant until herd immunity is achieved.

The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are:

😷Wear a mask.

👏Wash your hands.

↔️Keep your distance.

🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces.

🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results.

👨‍🔬Get tested.


💉Vaccine Info:All residents can preregister to book an appointment at a mass vaccination site at mass.gov/COVIDVaccine or dial Mass 2-1-1 for assistance. Residents age 60+ may call the Shrewsbury Senior Center at 508-841-8640 or Mass 2-1-1 for assistance.

11 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since April 8, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,827.

We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. We are still seeing community spread occurring despite vaccination efforts. It is crucial for us to keep our guards up and remain vigilant until herd immunity is achieved.

The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are:

😷Wear a mask.

👏Wash your hands.

↔️Keep your distance.

🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces.

🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results.

👨‍🔬Get tested.


💉Vaccine Info:All residents can preregister to book an appointment at a mass vaccination site at mass.gov/COVIDVaccine or dial Mass 2-1-1 for assistance. Residents age 60+ may call the Shrewsbury Senior Center at 508-841-8640 or Mass 2-1-1 for assistance.

14 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since April 7, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,816. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. We are still seeing community spread occurring despite vaccination efforts. It is crucial for us to keep our guards up and remain vigilant until herd immunity is achieved. The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are: 😷Wear a mask. 👏Wash your hands. ↔️Keep your distance. 🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces. 🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results. 👨‍🔬Get tested. 💉Vaccine Info: In-home vaccinations are available to homebound individuals who are not able to leave their home to get to a vaccination site, even with assistance. For those Shrewsbury residents who are in a homebound situation and are in need of a COVID-19 vaccination, please contact the: HOMEBOUND VACCINATION PROGRAM CENTRAL INTAKE LINE 1-833-983-0485 MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY 9:00 A.M. TO 5:00 P.M. Residents in Phase 1 or Phase 2 are eligible to get the COVID-19 vaccine now. All residents can preregister to book an appointment at a mass vaccination site at mass.gov/COVIDVaccine or dial Mass 2-1-1 for assistance. Residents age 60+ may call the Shrewsbury Senior Center at 508-841-8640 or Mass 2-1-1 for assistance. Appointments will be offered based on eligibility and available appointments nearby. It is expected that more sites will come online as part of the preregistration process in April. Timeline for remaining groups: April 19th: General public ages 16 years of age and older The full timeline is available at mass.gov/COVIDVaccinePhases. The Administration has received assurances from the federal government that an increased vaccine supply will be available to states soon. Depending on supply, it could take weeks for people to be notified that an appointment is available at a mass vaccination site. Positive COVID-19 case reports will be updated each weekday. Weekend updates will be included in the Monday report. Click the link below for the press release.

Baker-Polito Administration Announces Expansion of Preregistration System

PRESS RELEASE: April 7, 2021

The Baker-Polito Administration announced today the expansion of the preregistration to include some regional collaboratives and improved features to allow for vaccination location selection during appointment booking.

Later this week, the Commonwealth’s preregistration system will expand to include the first regional collaboratives to the system. The Amherst/Northampton and Marshfield regional collaboratives will be the first to come online, and more regional collaboratives are working with the Command Center and tech teams to ensure they meet the operational and technological requirements to be added to the preregistration system.

Next week, the user experience for the preregistration system will change for people who are contacted with the opportunity to book appointments. People will have the opportunity to select their vaccination location before proceeding to select from available appointments.

To date, around 1.5 million people have preregistered using our system, with over 800,000 having been contacted with the opportunity to book appointments. We will continue to make improvements to the system in the weeks ahead, to make the process even easier as more people become eligible.

5 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since April 6, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,802. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. We are still seeing community spread occurring despite vaccination efforts. It is crucial for us to keep our guards up and remain vigilant until herd immunity is achieved. The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are: 😷Wear a mask. 👏Wash your hands. ↔️Keep your distance. 🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces. 🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results. 👨‍🔬Get tested. 💉Vaccine Info: In-home vaccinations are available to homebound individuals who are not able to leave their home to get to a vaccination site, even with assistance. For those Shrewsbury residents who are in a homebound situation and are in need of a COVID-19 vaccination, please contact the: HOMEBOUND VACCINATION PROGRAM CENTRAL INTAKE LINE 1-833-983-0485 MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY 9:00 A.M. TO 5:00 P.M. Residents in Phase 1 or Phase 2 are eligible to get the COVID-19 vaccine now. All residents can preregister to book an appointment at a mass vaccination site at mass.gov/COVIDVaccine or dial Mass 2-1-1 for assistance. Residents age 60+ may call the Shrewsbury Senior Center at 508-841-8640 or Mass 2-1-1 for assistance. Appointments will be offered based on eligibility and available appointments nearby. It is expected that more sites will come online as part of the preregistration process in April. Timeline for remaining groups: April 19th: General public ages 16 years of age and older The full timeline is available at mass.gov/COVIDVaccinePhases. The Administration has received assurances from the federal government that an increased vaccine supply will be available to states soon. Depending on supply, it could take weeks for people to be notified that an appointment is available at a mass vaccination site. Positive COVID-19 case reports will be updated each weekday. Weekend updates will be included in the Monday report. Click the link below for the press release.

6 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since April 5, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,797. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. We are still seeing community spread occurring despite vaccination efforts. It is crucial for us to keep our guards up and remain vigilant until herd immunity is achieved. The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are: 😷Wear a mask. 👏Wash your hands. ↔️Keep your distance. 🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces. 🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results. 👨‍🔬Get tested. 💉Vaccine Info: Visit Mass.gov/CovidVaccine

15 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since April 2, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,791. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. We are still seeing community spread occurring despite vaccination efforts. It is crucial for us to keep our guards up and remain vigilant until herd immunity is achieved. The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are: 😷Wear a mask. 👏Wash your hands. ↔️Keep your distance. 🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces. 🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results. 👨‍🔬Get tested. 💉Vaccine Info: In-home vaccinations are available to homebound individuals who are not able to leave their home to get to a vaccination site, even with assistance. For those Shrewsbury residents who are in a homebound situation and are in need of a COVID-19 vaccination, please contact the: HOMEBOUND VACCINATION PROGRAM CENTRAL INTAKE LINE 1-833-983-0485 MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY 9:00 A.M. TO 5:00 P.M. Residents in Phase 1 or Phase 2 are eligible to get the COVID-19 vaccine now. All residents can preregister to book an appointment at a mass vaccination site at mass.gov/COVIDVaccine or dial Mass 2-1-1 for assistance. Residents age 60+ may call the Shrewsbury Senior Center at 508-841-8640 or Mass 2-1-1 for assistance. Appointments will be offered based on eligibility and available appointments nearby. It is expected that more sites will come online as part of the preregistration process in April. Timeline for remaining groups: April 19th: General public ages 16 years of age and older The full timeline is available at mass.gov/COVIDVaccinePhases. The Administration has received assurances from the federal government that an increased vaccine supply will be available to states soon. Depending on supply, it could take weeks for people to be notified that an appointment is available at a mass vaccination site. Positive COVID-19 case reports will be updated each weekday. Weekend updates will be included in the Monday report. Click the link below for the press release.

4 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since April 1, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,776. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. We are still seeing community spread occurring despite vaccination efforts. It is crucial for us to keep our guards up and remain vigilant until herd immunity is achieved. The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are: 😷Wear a mask. 👏Wash your hands. ↔️Keep your distance. 🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces. 🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results. 👨‍🔬Get tested. 💉Vaccine Info: In-home vaccinations are available to homebound individuals who are not able to leave their home to get to a vaccination site, even with assistance. For those Shrewsbury residents who are in a homebound situation and are in need of a COVID-19 vaccination, please contact the: HOMEBOUND VACCINATION PROGRAM CENTRAL INTAKE LINE 1-833-983-0485 MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY 9:00 A.M. TO 5:00 P.M. Residents in Phase 1 or Phase 2, Group 1 (individuals age 75+ or individuals accompanying a 75+ resident), Phase 2, Group 2 (ages 60+, those with two or more medical conditions, and residents and staff of low income and affordable senior housing), K-12 Educators, Child Care Workers and K-12 School Staff, and certain workers are eligible to get the COVID-19 vaccine now. All residents can preregister to book an appointment at a mass vaccination site at mass.gov/COVIDVaccine or dial Mass 2-1-1 for assistance. Residents age 60+ may call the Shrewsbury Senior Center at 508-841-8640 or Mass 2-1-1 for assistance. Appointments will be offered based on eligibility and available appointments nearby. It is expected that more sites will come online as part of the preregistration process in April. Timeline for remaining groups: April 5th: Residents 55+ and residents with one certain medical condition April 19th: General public ages 16 years of age and older The full timeline is available at mass.gov/COVIDVaccinePhases. The Administration has received assurances from the federal government that an increased vaccine supply will be available to states soon. Depending on supply, it could take weeks for people to be notified that an appointment is available at a mass vaccination site. Positive COVID-19 case reports will be updated each weekday. Weekend updates will be included in the Monday report. Click the link below for the press release.

Baker-Polito Administration Announces Mobile Vaccination & Additional Support for Disproportionately Impacted Communities



CHELSEA – The Baker-Polito Administration today announced details for a new mobile vaccination effort made possible by a recently-launched partnership with FEMA that is bringing 6,000 additional daily doses to Massachusetts. The Administration also announced the awarding of a $4.7 million grant to support local public health efforts in the 20 most disproportionately impacted communities in the Commonwealth, and highlighted new outreach efforts in these communities. The Administration made these announcements during a visit to the vaccination clinic at La Colaborativa in Chelsea, one of four hard-hit communities the Administration is supporting with a total of $100 million after previously being slated to receive disproportionately smaller amounts of federal funding through the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021.



FEMA Mobile Vaccination

This week, the Commonwealth and FEMA launched a partnership that designates the Hynes Convention Center in Boston as a federal mass vaccination site where FEMA will support the daily administration of 6,000 vaccine daily doses for an eight-week period. This collaboration includes vaccinations beyond the Hynes location, following a “hub and spoke” model which allows doses from the central “hub” to be distributed to nearby communities through mobile vaccination units and pop-up clinics, with a focus on vaccine equity.



Starting next week and ramping up over time, mobile vaccination efforts will be launched in Chelsea, Revere, Boston, Fall River and New Bedford. Like the Hynes site and other federally supported sites across the country, these cities were selected based the CDC’s Social Vulnerability Index, along with their proximity to the Hynes.



These mobile and pop up clinics will scale over time, with up to 500 vaccines per day available for each community.



Doses will be picked up by the mobile vaccination teams at the Hynes and then distributed and administered in these communities. Most of these mobile units and pop up clinics will be set up in city parks, parking lots, and other trusted community locations identified by the municipalities as easy to access for community members.



The program will also include grassroots efforts in each community to raise awareness about these mobile clinics and assist in booking appointments. Similar to the broader partnership with FEMA, this mobile program will run for 8 weeks.



Equity Outreach Initiatives

Beginning next week, over 200 bi-lingual, locally hired community organizers will hold 83 outreach events in neighborhoods across each of our 20 equity communities for business walks and door-to-door canvassing and will also start phone-banking efforts to support vaccine appointment registration.



Archipalego Strategies Group (ASG), a minority-women owned business and Health Care for All have been working closely with the Department of Public health and our equity communities to build a robust outreach program that is tailored to the needs of each community.



$4.7 Million Best Value Grant Awards

The Commonwealth this week will distribute $4.7M of federal grant funding to the 20 communities most disproportionately impacted by COVID-19 that will enable them to lead vaccine clinics and promote vaccine trust and confidence.



This funding will support local municipalities and health departments as they:

• collaborate with key stakeholders including local Community and Faith-Based Organizations; Community Health Centers, and Community Health Workers who can support grassroots outreach;

• additional staffing (e.g., public health nursing) and resources to support vaccine clinics in disproportionately impacted communities;

• identify gaps and map available resources to reduce barriers to vaccination; and

• disseminate culturally appropriate translations of communications campaign materials, including Trust the Facts. Get the Vax. campaign materials and vaccine FAQs in multiple languages, and support outreach efforts such as town halls and information sharing in close coordination with Community Liaisons, ASG and HCFA.

The funding includes a minimum of $100,000 dedicated to support staffing and public health infrastructure for local public health. This funding will be for today through June 30, 2022.



City/Town

Amount

Boston

$963,429

Brockton

$222,064

Chelsea

$146,794

Everett

$160,302

Fall River

$211,129

Fitchburg

$152,370

Framingham

$192,517

Haverhill

$181,807

Holyoke

$151,192

Lawrence

$209,550

Leominster

$150,432

Lowell

$245,185

Lynn

$225,362

Malden

$184,177

Methuen

$166,532

New Bedford

$223,687

Randolph

$142,514

Revere

$175,682

Springfield

$296,713

Worcester

$338,378

Total

4,739,816

5 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since March 31, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,772. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. We are still seeing community spread occurring despite vaccination efforts. It is crucial for us to keep our guards up and remain vigilant until herd immunity is achieved. The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are: 😷Wear a mask. 👏Wash your hands. ↔️Keep your distance. 🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces. 🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results. 👨‍🔬Get tested. 💉Vaccine Info: In-home vaccinations are available to homebound individuals who are not able to leave their home to get to a vaccination site, even with assistance. For those Shrewsbury residents who are in a homebound situation and are in need of a COVID-19 vaccination, please contact the: HOMEBOUND VACCINATION PROGRAM CENTRAL INTAKE LINE 1-833-983-0485 MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY 9:00 A.M. TO 5:00 P.M. Residents in Phase 1 or Phase 2, Group 1 (individuals age 75+ or individuals accompanying a 75+ resident), Phase 2, Group 2 (ages 60+, those with two or more medical conditions, and residents and staff of low income and affordable senior housing), K-12 Educators, Child Care Workers and K-12 School Staff, and certain workers are eligible to get the COVID-19 vaccine now. All residents can preregister to book an appointment at a mass vaccination site at mass.gov/COVIDVaccine or dial Mass 2-1-1 for assistance. Residents age 60+ may call the Shrewsbury Senior Center at 508-841-8640 or Mass 2-1-1 for assistance. Appointments will be offered based on eligibility and available appointments nearby. It is expected that more sites will come online as part of the preregistration process in April. Timeline for remaining groups: April 5th: Residents 55+ and residents with one certain medical condition April 19th: General public ages 16 years of age and older The full timeline is available at mass.gov/COVIDVaccinePhases. The Administration has received assurances from the federal government that an increased vaccine supply will be available to states soon. Depending on supply, it could take weeks for people to be notified that an appointment is available at a mass vaccination site. Positive COVID-19 case reports will be updated each weekday. Weekend updates will be included in the Monday report. Click the link below for the press release.

15 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since March 30, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,767. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. We are still seeing community spread occurring despite vaccination efforts. It is crucial for us to keep our guards up and remain vigilant until herd immunity is achieved. The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are: 😷Wear a mask. 👏Wash your hands. ↔️Keep your distance. 🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces. 🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results. 👨‍🔬Get tested. 💉Vaccine Info: In-home vaccinations are available to homebound individuals who are not able to leave their home to get to a vaccination site, even with assistance. For those Shrewsbury residents who are in a homebound situation and are in need of a COVID-19 vaccination, please contact the: HOMEBOUND VACCINATION PROGRAM CENTRAL INTAKE LINE 1-833-983-0485 MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY 9:00 A.M. TO 5:00 P.M. Residents in Phase 1 or Phase 2, Group 1 (individuals age 75+ or individuals accompanying a 75+ resident), Phase 2, Group 2 (ages 60+, those with two or more medical conditions, and residents and staff of low income and affordable senior housing), K-12 Educators, Child Care Workers and K-12 School Staff, and certain workers are eligible to get the COVID-19 vaccine now. All residents can preregister to book an appointment at a mass vaccination site at mass.gov/COVIDVaccine or dial Mass 2-1-1 for assistance. Residents age 60+ may call the Shrewsbury Senior Center at 508-841-8640 or Mass 2-1-1 for assistance. Appointments will be offered based on eligibility and available appointments nearby. It is expected that more sites will come online as part of the preregistration process in April. Timeline for remaining groups: April 5th: Residents 55+ and residents with one certain medical condition April 19th: General public ages 16 years of age and older The full timeline is available at mass.gov/COVIDVaccinePhases. The Administration has received assurances from the federal government that an increased vaccine supply will be available to states soon. Depending on supply, it could take weeks for people to be notified that an appointment is available at a mass vaccination site. Positive COVID-19 case reports will be updated each weekday. Weekend updates will be included in the Monday report. Click the link below for the press release.

15 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since March 29, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,752. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. We are still seeing community spread occurring despite vaccination efforts. It is crucial for us to keep our guards up and remain vigilant until herd immunity is achieved. The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are: 😷Wear a mask. 👏Wash your hands. ↔️Keep your distance. 🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces. 🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results. 👨‍🔬Get tested. 💉Vaccine Info: In-home vaccinations are available to homebound individuals who are not able to leave their home to get to a vaccination site, even with assistance. For those Shrewsbury residents who are in a homebound situation and are in need of a COVID-19 vaccination, please contact the: HOMEBOUND VACCINATION PROGRAM CENTRAL INTAKE LINE 1-833-983-0485 MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY 9:00 A.M. TO 5:00 P.M. Residents in Phase 1 or Phase 2, Group 1 (individuals age 75+ or individuals accompanying a 75+ resident), Phase 2, Group 2 (ages 60+, those with two or more medical conditions, and residents and staff of low income and affordable senior housing), K-12 Educators, Child Care Workers and K-12 School Staff, and certain workers are eligible to get the COVID-19 vaccine now. All residents can preregister to book an appointment at a mass vaccination site at mass.gov/COVIDVaccine or dial Mass 2-1-1 for assistance. Residents age 60+ may call the Shrewsbury Senior Center at 508-841-8640 or Mass 2-1-1 for assistance. Appointments will be offered based on eligibility and available appointments nearby. It is expected that more sites will come online as part of the preregistration process in April. Timeline for remaining groups: April 5th: Residents 55+ and residents with one certain medical condition April 19th: General public ages 16 years of age and older The full timeline is available at mass.gov/COVIDVaccinePhases. The Administration has received assurances from the federal government that an increased vaccine supply will be available to states soon. Depending on supply, it could take weeks for people to be notified that an appointment is available at a mass vaccination site. Positive COVID-19 case reports will be updated each weekday. Weekend updates will be included in the Monday report. Click the link below for the press release.

The Baker-Polito Administration's First in the Nation COVID-19 Pooled Testing Initiative Finds 0.7% Positivity Rate in Schools Throughout the Commonwealth

Commonwealth extends investment in COVID-19 surveillance through the school year and invests in early educator testing

PRESS RELEASE: March 29, 2021


The Baker-Polito Administration today announced that data collected from its statewide, first-in-the-nation pooled testing initiative in schools across the Commonwealth found low positivity rates – far less than 1 percent – among students and staff. The statewide testing program, funded entirely by the Commonwealth and available to every Massachusetts public school at no cost, was also extended through the school year.

Launched in February and the first program of its kind nationwide, Massachusetts schools have tested nearly 159,000 individuals in 22,679 pools with a pool positivity rate of 0.76 percent to date; because the average pool included 7 people, individual prevalence among those tested is well below that number. More than 1,000 schools are enrolled in the COVID-19 pooled testing initiative, and more than 329,000 students, educators and staff are eligible to be tested on a weekly basis. Of the collected pooled tests, Massachusetts is not aware of any in which there was more than one positive individual, suggesting that there is extremely little evidence of in-school transmission of COVID-19 in Massachusetts.

The test is performed at least once per week on an anterior nasal swab and results are delivered within 24 hours. If a pooled test result is negative, then all individuals within that pool are presumed negative and may continue to remain in school. If a pooled test result is positive, then everyone in the pool is given an individual diagnostic test. Once positive individuals are identified, they must follow isolation guidance. Students, teachers, and staff that were close contacts of the positive individual must quarantine according to current requirements.

According to a study conducted by the Rockefeller Foundation released in December 2020, community outbreak had not been traced to an elementary school, with contact tracing studies concluding that children are almost never the source in infection clusters.

“Massachusetts’ robust and ambitious program offering COVID-19 surveillance testing to all schools, charters, and special education collaboratives led the nation,” said Governor Charlie Baker. “The science is clear that it is safe for kids to be in the classrooms, and this initiative has proved to serve as an invaluable tool for schools throughout the Commonwealth as they return to in-person learning.”

“Access to this pooled testing program has given many school districts the information and assurance they need in order to be able to keep educating students in person safely and successfully,” said Lt. Governor Karyn Polito. “We are grateful to the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education and the Executive Office of Health and Human Services for undertaking this critical program on behalf of our students, teachers and school staff.”

With initial state funding set to expire on April 18, the Baker-Polito Administration also announced today that it will cover the costs of the COVID-19 pooled surveillance testing through the end of the school year, an effort made possible by additional federal funds specifically for COVID-19 testing, anticipated to total approximately $207 million for Massachusetts. Schools who are not yet enrolled in the program are encouraged to do so by contacting K12CovidTesting@mass.gov, and can learn more here.

Additionally, the Administration also announced today that it will now cover the costs of COVID-19 testing at sites dedicated to early education providers. In January, the Administration partnered with private and philanthropic funders, including supporters from the Massachusetts Early Education Funder Collaborative and BayCoast Bank, to launch a pilot COVID-19 testing program dedicated to providing on-demand PCR testing to child care providers and the families they serve to ensure easy access to testing when there is suspected COVID-19 exposure. The Department of Early Education and Care (EEC) set up nine rotating drive-through testing sites throughout the Commonwealth, which are only open only to child care providers and individuals affiliated with programs.

17 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since March 26, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,737. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. We are still seeing community spread occurring despite vaccination efforts. It is crucial for us to keep our guards up and remain vigilant until herd immunity is achieved. The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are: 😷Wear a mask. 👏Wash your hands. ↔️Keep your distance. 🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces. 🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results. 👨‍🔬Get tested. 💉Vaccine Info: In-home vaccinations are available to homebound individuals who are not able to leave their home to get to a vaccination site, even with assistance. For those Shrewsbury residents who are in a homebound situation and are in need of a COVID-19 vaccination, please contact the: HOMEBOUND VACCINATION PROGRAM CENTRAL INTAKE LINE 1-833-983-0485 MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY 9:00 A.M. TO 5:00 P.M. Residents in Phase 1 or Phase 2, Group 1 (individuals age 75+ or individuals accompanying a 75+ resident), Phase 2, Group 2 (ages 60+, those with two or more medical conditions, and residents and staff of low income and affordable senior housing), K-12 Educators, Child Care Workers and K-12 School Staff, and certain workers are eligible to get the COVID-19 vaccine now. All residents can preregister to book an appointment at a mass vaccination site at mass.gov/COVIDVaccine or dial Mass 2-1-1 for assistance. Residents age 60+ may call the Shrewsbury Senior Center at 508-841-8640 or Mass 2-1-1 for assistance. Appointments will be offered based on eligibility and available appointments nearby. It is expected that more sites will come online as part of the preregistration process in April. Timeline for remaining groups: April 5th: Residents 55+ and residents with one certain medical condition April 19th: General public ages 16 years of age and older The full timeline is available at mass.gov/COVIDVaccinePhases. The Administration has received assurances from the federal government that an increased vaccine supply will be available to states soon. Depending on supply, it could take weeks for people to be notified that an appointment is available at a mass vaccination site. Positive COVID-19 case reports will be updated each weekday. Weekend updates will be included in the Monday report. Click the link below for the press release.

9 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since March 25, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,720. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. We are still seeing community spread occurring despite vaccination efforts. It is crucial for us to keep our guards up and remain vigilant until herd immunity is achieved. The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are: 😷Wear a mask. 👏Wash your hands. ↔️Keep your distance. 🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces. 🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results. 👨‍🔬Get tested. 💉Vaccine Info: In-home vaccinations are available to homebound individuals who are not able to leave their home to get to a vaccination site, even with assistance. For those Shrewsbury residents who are in a homebound situation and are in need of a COVID-19 vaccination, please contact the: HOMEBOUND VACCINATION PROGRAM CENTRAL INTAKE LINE 1-833-983-0485 MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY 9:00 A.M. TO 5:00 P.M. Residents in Phase 1 or Phase 2, Group 1 (individuals age 75+ or individuals accompanying a 75+ resident), Phase 2, Group 2 (ages 60+, those with two or more medical conditions, and residents and staff of low income and affordable senior housing), K-12 Educators, Child Care Workers and K-12 School Staff, and certain workers are eligible to get the COVID-19 vaccine now. All residents can preregister to book an appointment at a mass vaccination site at mass.gov/COVIDVaccine or dial Mass 2-1-1 for assistance. Residents age 60+ may call the Shrewsbury Senior Center at 508-841-8640 or Mass 2-1-1 for assistance. Appointments will be offered based on eligibility and available appointments nearby. It is expected that more sites will come online as part of the preregistration process in April. Timeline for remaining groups: April 5th: Residents 55+ and residents with one certain medical condition April 19th: General public ages 16 years of age and older The full timeline is available at mass.gov/COVIDVaccinePhases. The Administration has received assurances from the federal government that an increased vaccine supply will be available to states soon. Depending on supply, it could take weeks for people to be notified that an appointment is available at a mass vaccination site. Positive COVID-19 case reports will be updated each weekday. Weekend updates will be included in the Monday report. Click the link below for the press release.

The Baker-Polito Administration Provided Weekly Dose Updates, $100 Million for Disproportionately Impacted Communities, Announced Homebound Vaccination Program

PRESS RELEASE: March 25, 2021

The Baker-Polito Administration announced the weekly distribution of COVID-19 vaccine doses to providers across the Commonwealth. The Commonwealth has received 330,000 first and second doses from the federal government as part of the state allocation of doses.

The Administration also announced $100 million in funding for four communities – Chelsea, Everett, Methuen and Randolph – that are all designated hardest hit communities but received disproportionately smaller levels of federal funding in the recently passed $1.9 trillion American Rescue Plan Act compared to other communities.

The Administration also announced the launch of the Commonwealth’s homebound vaccination program to build on the Administration’s efforts to ensure that all residents of the Commonwealth have equitable access to the vaccine.

Dose Update:
The Administration provided the weekly update for doses allocated from the federal government.

This week, the state received a modest increase in supply of first doses, for a total of 172,000. This includes 7,900 doses of J&J vaccine.

In total, the Commonwealth received 330,000 first and second doses as part of the state allocation. These figures do not include doses provided directly from the federal government to the Federal Retail Pharmacy Program or to Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHC).

This week, first doses and second dose state allocations (total doses), were distributed among providers as follows:

Health systems and health care providers (excluding community health centers): 115,120
Mass vaccination locations: 109,750
Regional Collaboratives and Local Boards of Health: 55,850
Community Health Centers: 28,820
Retail pharmacies (non-CVS) state allocation: 10,350
Mobile Clinics supporting long-term care facilities, congregate care, affordable/low-income senior housing and homebound individuals: 9,800
Weekly allocations are subject to change based on federal availability, demand from providers, and obligations to meet second doses. Providers have 10 days to use their doses and must meet specific performance thresholds.

The Administration has also been informed that the federal government will send a one-time allocation of 40,800 doses of J&J vaccine to the Commonwealth next week as well as a one-time allocation of 20,000 Pfizer first doses.

Federal Doses:
In addition to the state allocation, the federal government distributes vaccines to CVS Health sites as part of the Federal Retail Pharmacy Partnership as well as to certain Massachusetts federally qualified community health centers. These quantities fluctuate on a weekly basis and are not counted as part of the state’s weekly allocation.

This week, 115,800 first and second doses were allocated to the retail pharmacy program.

15 FQHCs received 24,570 doses directly from the Federal Government.

Municipal Funding:
The Baker-Polito Administration today announced that a total of $100 million in aid will be distributed to Chelsea, Everett, Methuen, and Randolph, four communities that were hit hardest by COVID-19 but are expected to receive disproportionally smaller amounts of federal funding through the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021. These four municipalities will be able to use this $100 million in direct aid to support costs related to the COVID-19 pandemic, including direct response efforts, addressing negative economic impacts, replacing revenue lost during the pandemic, making investments in water, sewer, and broadband infrastructure, as well as other eligible expenditures.

Based on preliminary estimates published by the US House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, Massachusetts is expected to receive a total of approximately $7.9 billion in direct aid through the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, including $3.4 billion to counties, cities, and towns in Massachusetts. A portion of this $3.4 billion is being allocated to municipalities based on the federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program formula, while assistance to other communities is being allocated on a per-capita basis. The use of these two different allocation formulas creates disparities in distributions among cities and towns, and Chelsea, Everett, Methuen, and Randolph are the four designated hardest hit communities with disproportionately smaller levels of federal funding compared to other hardest hit communities.

The commitment announced today by the Baker-Polito Administration includes distributing $100 million to address disparities in funding allocations among these four hardest hit communities after the US Treasury publishes final payment figures in the coming weeks. The Administration will work with the Legislature to use existing or future sources of federal revenue to fund this commitment.

Homebound Vaccination Program:
Beginning March 29, 2021, the Administration will launch a homebound vaccination program to provide in-home vaccinations to homebound individuals who cannot leave their home, even with supports, to get to a COVID-19 vaccine appointment.

In-home vaccinations will be available to homebound individuals who:

Have considerable difficulty and/or require significant support to leave the home for medical appointments
Require an ambulance or two-person assistance to leave the home
Are not able to leave home for medical appointments under normal circumstances
168 local Boards of Health (representing about 40% of MA’s population) will conduct a homebound vaccination program for their community residents, while homebound residents of 183 municipalities (representing 60% of MA’s population) will receive vaccines through the statewide service through Commonwealth Care Alliance (CCA).

Health care providers, Aging Services Access Points (ASAP), Local Boards of Health, Councils on Aging (COAs) and other community organizations will be connecting individuals to the homebound program. In addition, homebound individuals and their loved ones can call 1-833-983-0485 to schedule an appointment and determine if they meet eligibility for in-home vaccination. The registration phone line is open Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM and has representatives who speak English and Spanish, as well as translation services available in 100+ languages.

“CCA is honored to lead this critical mission of vaccinating homebound citizens of Massachusetts,” said Christopher D. Palmieri, President and Chief Executive Officer, Commonwealth Care Alliance. “Since our inception, CCA’s approach to care has been rooted in the community to ensure the most appropriate site of care for the individuals we so proudly serve. Over the past few weeks, we have successfully vaccinated hundreds of our own homebound health plan members, and our team is ready to expand this effort across the state and aid the Commonwealth’s vaccination effort in any way we can.”

About Commonwealth Care Alliance:
Commonwealth Care Alliance (CCA) is a Massachusetts-based not-for-profit, community-based healthcare organization dedicated to improving care for individuals who are dually eligible for MassHealth (Medicaid) and Medicare with complex medical, behavioral health and social needs, including those with disabilities.

8 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since March 24, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,711.

We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. We are still seeing community spread occurring despite vaccination efforts. It is crucial for us to keep our guards up and remain vigilant until herd immunity is achieved.

The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are:

😷Wear a mask.

👏Wash your hands.

↔️Keep your distance.

🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces.

🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results.

👨‍🔬Get tested.


💉Vaccine Info:
In-home vaccinations are available to homebound individuals who are not able to leave their home to get to a vaccination site, even with assistance. For those Shrewsbury residents who are in a homebound situation and are in need of a COVID-19 vaccination, please contact the:

HOMEBOUND VACCINATION PROGRAM CENTRAL INTAKE LINE
1-833-983-0485
MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY
9:00 A.M. TO 5:00 P.M.

Residents in Phase 1 or Phase 2, Group 1 (individuals age 75+ or individuals accompanying a 75+ resident), Phase 2, Group 2 (ages 60+, those with two or more medical conditions, and residents and staff of low income and affordable senior housing), K-12 Educators, Child Care Workers and K-12 School Staff, and certain workers are eligible to get the COVID-19 vaccine now. All residents can preregister to book an appointment at a mass vaccination site at mass.gov/COVIDVaccine or dial Mass 2-1-1 for assistance. Residents age 60+ may call the Shrewsbury Senior Center at 508-841-8640 or Mass 2-1-1 for assistance.

Appointments will be offered based on eligibility and available appointments nearby. It is expected that more sites will come online as part of the preregistration process in April.

Timeline for remaining groups:

April 5th: Residents 55+ and residents with one certain medical condition
April 19th: General public ages 16 years of age and older


The full timeline is available at mass.gov/COVIDVaccinePhases. The Administration has received assurances from the federal government that an increased vaccine supply will be available to states soon. Depending on supply, it could take weeks for people to be notified that an appointment is available at a mass vaccination site.



Positive COVID-19 case reports will be updated each weekday. Weekend updates will be included in the Monday report. Click the link below for the press release.

Homebound COVID-19 Vaccination Program & Public Phone Number

Homebound individuals who cannot leave their home to get a COVID-19 vaccine are able to receive an in-home vaccination through one of two options, depending on where they live:

1. 161 Local Boards of Health have chosen to manage their own in-home vaccination program or work with a regional collaborative to do so;

2. 190 Local Boards of Health will work with the Commonwealth to support residents through the State Program*.

*The Town of Shrewsbury has opted to work with the Commonwealth to support residents through the State Program.

Over the last couple of months, the Shrewsbury Council on Aging (COA) has identified many Shrewsbury residents who are in a homebound / shut-in situation. If you have already provided your contact information to the COA, there is no further action required on your part. This list will be furnished to the State who will in turn contact those individuals directly to set up an appointment.

In-home vaccinations are available to individuals who are not able to leave their home to get to a vaccination site, even with assistance. These homebound individuals either:

Require ambulance or two-person assistance to leave the home, or
Are not able to leave the home for medical appointments under normal circumstances, or
Have considerable difficulty and/or require significant support to leave the home for medical appointments
For those Shrewsbury residents who are in a homebound situation and are in need of a COVID-19 vaccination, please contact the:

HOMEBOUND VACCINATION PROGRAM CENTRAL INTAKE LINE
1-833-983-0485
MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY
9:00 A.M. TO 5:00 P.M.

The Homebound Vaccination Program Central Intake Line is available in English and Spanish and will have translators available to support residents in approximately 100 additional languages.

A representative will ask pre-screening questions to ensure the individual meets the homebound eligibility requirements.

8 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since March 23, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,703. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. We are still seeing community spread occurring despite vaccination efforts. It is crucial for us to keep our guards up and remain vigilant until herd immunity is achieved. The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are: 😷Wear a mask. 👏Wash your hands. ↔️Keep your distance. 🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces. 🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results. ‍🔬Get tested. Positive COVID-19 case reports will be updated each weekday. Weekend updates will be included in the Monday report. Click the link for the press release.

11 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since March 22, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,695. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. We are still seeing community spread occurring despite vaccination efforts. It is crucial for us to keep our guards up and remain vigilant until herd immunity is achieved. The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are: 😷Wear a mask. 👏Wash your hands. ↔️Keep your distance. 🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces. 🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results. ‍🔬Get tested. Positive COVID-19 case reports will be updated each weekday. Weekend updates will be included in the Monday report. Click the link for the press release.

19 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since March 19, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,684. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. We are still seeing community spread occurring despite vaccination efforts. It is crucial for us to keep our guards up and remain vigilant until herd immunity is achieved. The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are: 😷Wear a mask. 👏Wash your hands. ↔️Keep your distance. 🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces. 🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results. ‍🔬Get tested. Positive COVID-19 case reports will be updated each weekday. Weekend updates will be included in the Monday report. Click the link for the press release.

12 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since March 18, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,665. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. We are still seeing community spread occurring despite vaccination efforts. It is crucial for us to keep our guards up and remain vigilant until herd immunity is achieved. The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are: 😷Wear a mask. 👏Wash your hands. ↔️Keep your distance. 🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces. 🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results. ‍🔬Get tested. Positive COVID-19 case reports will be updated each weekday. Weekend updates will be included in the Monday report. Click the link for the press release.

The Baker-Polito Administration Announced Transition to Phase IV of Reopening Plan.
Massachusetts will advance to Step 1 of Phase IV on March 22, 2021; Replacing Travel Order with Travel Advisory.

PRESS RELEASE: March 18, 2021

The Baker-Polito Administration announced that Massachusetts will advance to Step 1 of Phase IV of the Commonwealth’s reopening plan on Monday, March 22, 2021. The Administration continues to take steps to reopen the Commonwealth's economy with public health metrics continuing to trend in a positive direction. This includes drops in average daily COVID cases and hospitalizations. Massachusetts also continues to be a national leader in vaccination rates. The Administration also replaced the Massachusetts Travel Order originally issued in July 2020 with a Travel Advisory, effective March 22, 2021.

In addition, the Administration also announced nearly $31 million in awards to 710 additional small businesses in the tenth round of COVID-19 relief grants administered by the Massachusetts Growth Capital Corporation (MGCC).

Phase IV, Step 1 and Gathering Changes:
On March 1, 2021, Massachusetts loosened capacity restrictions for several industries and advanced to Step 2 of Phase III of the reopening plan. Since then, hospitalizations dropped by 20% and deaths dropped by 24%. The seven day average of new cases in long-term care facilities dropped by 53%. The positive test rate remains below 2% and has been for several weeks now. The seven day average of new cases is also down over this time by 7%.

Effective Monday, March 22, 2021 all communities in Massachusetts will move into Step 1 of Phase IV of the state’s reopening plan. This will open a range of previously closed business sectors under tight capacity restrictions that are expected to be adjusted over time if favorable trends in the public health data continue. Effective on the planned advancement to Step 1 of Phase IV, the following large capacity sports and entertainment venues will be permitted to operate at a strict 12% capacity limit after submitting a plan to the MA Department of Public Health (MDPH):

Indoor and outdoor stadiums
Arenas
Ballparks
Also effective on March 22, 2021 gathering limits for event venues and in public settings will increase to 100 people indoors and 150 people outdoors. Outdoor gatherings at private residences and in private backyards will remain at a maximum of 25 people, with indoor house gatherings remaining at 10 people.

Additionally, dance floors will be permitted at weddings and other events only, and overnight summer camps will be allowed to operate this coming summer. Exhibition and convention halls may also begin to operate, following gatherings limits and event protocols. Other Phase IV sectors must continue to remain closed.

Travel Order:
Effective Monday, March 22, 2021 the Massachusetts Travel Order will be replaced with a Travel Advisory.

The new travel advisory will urge all persons entering Massachusetts, including returning residents, are advised to quarantine for 10 days upon their arrival if they have been out of the state for 24 hours or more.

The advisory does not apply to anyone in the following categories:

Anyone who is returning to Massachusetts after an absence of fewer than 24 hours.
Travelers who have a negative COVID-19 test result that has been administered up to 72 hours prior to their arrival in Massachusetts.
Workers who enter Massachusetts to perform critical infrastructure functions (as specified by the Federal Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency) while they are commuting to or from or while at work.
Travelers who are fully vaccinated (i.e. who have received two doses of either the Moderna or Pfizer COVID-19 vaccines OR who have received a single dose of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, 14 days or more ago and who do not have symptoms).
Travelers are additionally encouraged to consult and follow the CDC’s guidelines and requirements for travel.

COVID-19 Business Relief Grants:
The Baker-Polito Administration announced approximately $31 million in awards for 710 additional businesses in the tenth round of COVID relief grants administered by the Massachusetts Growth Capital Corporation (MGCC). As in prior rounds, each grant recipient meets sector or demographic priorities set for the grant programs administered by MGCC.

With the addition of this round of grants, the Administration has awarded over $633 million in direct financial support to 14,056 businesses across the Commonwealth.

Grants for this round were awarded to 327 minority-owned, and 293 women-owned, businesses; 240 recipients are located in Gateway Cities, and 245 businesses awarded grants have not received any prior aid.

Additionally, MGCC will soon be announcing the availability of funding to support small business technical assistance and community development financial institutions.

11 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since March 17, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,653. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. We are still seeing community spread occurring despite vaccination efforts. It is crucial for us to keep our guards up and remain vigilant until herd immunity is achieved. The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are: 😷Wear a mask. 👏Wash your hands. ↔️Keep your distance. 🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces. 🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results. ‍🔬Get tested. Positive COVID-19 case reports will be updated each weekday. Weekend updates will be included in the Monday report. Click the link for the press release.

10 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since March 16, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,642.

We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19.

The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are:

😷Wear a mask.
👏Wash your hands.
↔️Keep your distance.
🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces.
🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results.
‍🔬Get tested.

Positive COVID-19 case reports will be updated each weekday. Weekend updates will be included in the Monday report. Click the link for the press release

Baker-Polito Administration Announces Vaccine Timeline for All Residents, Provides Weekly Dose Updates & $24.7 Million in Federal Funding for Vaccine Equity Initiative

PRESS RELEASE: March 17, 2021

Today, the Baker-Polito Administration announced the timeline for all remaining residents to be eligible for a vaccine.

The Administration also announced the weekly distribution of vaccine doses statewide for providers and a new $24.7 million investment in the Administration’s Vaccine Equity Initiative.

Vaccine Eligibility Timeline

Governor Baker today announced the dates that all remaining residents and certain worker groups will be eligible for a vaccine.

The Commonwealth’s detailed timeline adheres to the original timeline for the three phases announced in December.

All residents can preregister to book an appointment at a mass vaccination site at mass.gov/COVIDVaccine.

Appointments will be offered based on eligibility and available appointments nearby. It is expected that more sites will come online as part of the preregistration process in April.

Timeline for remaining groups:

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
The full timeline is available at mass.gov/COVIDVaccinePhases.

The Administration has received assurances from the federal government that an increased vaccine supply will be available to states soon.

Depending on supply, it could take weeks for people to be notified that an appointment is available at a mass vaccination site.

Dose Update

The Administration provided the weekly update for doses allocated from the federal government.

This week, the state is receiving a modest increase in supply of first doses, approximately 170,000. This includes an unexpected 8,000 doses of J&J vaccine.

In total, the Commonwealth will receive 316,000 first and second doses as part of the state allocation. These figures do not include doses provided through the Federal Retail Pharmacy Program or to Federally Qualified Health Centers.

This week, first doses and second dose state allocations (total doses), were distributed among providers as follows:

Mass vaccination locations: 101,890
Health systems and health care providers (excluding CHCs): 99,230
Community Health Centers: 27,450
Regional Collaboratives and Local Boards of Health: 59,580
Regional Collaboratives: 40,370
Local Boards of Health: 19,210
Retail pharmacies (non-CVS)
State allocation: 8,490
Mobile Clinics supporting long-term care facilities, congregate care, affordable/low-income senior housing and homebound individuals: 19,180
Weekly allocations are subject to change based on federal availability, demand from providers, and obligations to meet second doses. Providers have 10 days to use their doses and must meet specific performance thresholds.

Federal Doses:

In addition to the state allocation, the federal government distributes vaccines to CVS Health sites as part of the Federal Retail Pharmacy Partnership as well as to certain Massachusetts federally qualified community health centers. These quantities fluctuate on a weekly basis and are not counted as part of the state’s weekly allocation.

This week, 106,440 first and second doses have been allocated to the retail pharmacy program and 9,500 doses have been allocated to the federally qualified health centers.

Individuals looking to book appointments across any of these providers should visit mass.gov/COVIDvaccine to learn more.

Vaccine Equity Initiative

The Administration also announced the release of $27.4 million in federal funds to increase trust, vaccine acceptance and administration rates as part of the Administration’s Vaccine Equity Initiative and to meet the needs of priority populations. Recognizing equity as a critical component of the state’s vaccine distribution plan, the Department of Public Health (DPH) is working closely with 20 hardest hit communities in Massachusetts as they identify their specific community needs, further building on existing support.

These federal funds from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) build upon current and past efforts supporting vaccination in these communities disproportionately impacted by COVID-19 and includes partnerships with municipalities, local boards of health, community- and faith-based organizations, community health centers and others to reduce barriers to vaccination. These funds also will provide direct vaccine administration to populations that are not effectively reached through existing vaccine supply channels.

These federal funds include:

$10.6 million to provide direct assistance with vaccine access, including appointment registration assistance, transportation to vaccination clinics, mobility assistance, medical interpretation, and other supports. These services will be delivered through contracted community-based organizations (CBOs), community health centers (CHCs), and behavioral health providers.
$5.1 million to invest in community health centers through the Massachusetts League of Community Health Centers to expand vaccination capacity at community health centers, including Community Health Worker Ambassadors.
$4.7 million to support municipalities and local boards of health through direct funding of the 20 equity municipalities for coordination and support for vaccine clinics and acceptance.
$4 million to help tailor community outreach and education through direct funding of local community-based and faith-based organizations in the 20 equity municipalities.
$3 million for direct vaccine administration in community settings by funding qualified organizations to directly administer vaccination to groups not effectively reached by other mechanisms.
These activities will build on DPH-supported initiatives already in progress, such as outreach and collaboration with community and faith-based organizations, increased connections and investment in Community Health Centers, and grassroots neighborhood outreach by teams of trained staff and residents led by Archipelago Strategies Group (ASG), a minority-owned business, and Health Care For All (HCFA).

Other activities already underway include the DPH COVID-19 Vaccine Ambassador Program, which has assisted with dozens of local meetings to answer questions about vaccine, wide dissemination and amplification of the state’s “Trust the Facts. Get the Vax.” multilingual public awareness campaign, and the DPH Community Liaisons who are meeting weekly with representatives from the communities to identify and lift barriers to vaccine access and support community-based solutions.

The Administration’s Vaccine Equity Initiative focuses on 20 cities and towns with the greatest COVID-19 case burden, taking into account social determinants of health and the disproportionate impact of COVID-19 on Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC). These communities are Boston, Brockton, Chelsea, Everett, Fall River, Fitchburg, Framingham, Haverhill, Holyoke, Lawrence, Leominster, Lowell, Lynn, Malden, Methuen, New Bedford, Randolph, Revere, Springfield, and Worcester.

6 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since March 15, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,632. 8,426 Shrewsbury residents have had at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. Additional data can be reviewed in the press release.

We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19.

The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are:

😷Wear a mask.
👏Wash your hands.
↔️Keep your distance.
🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces.
🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results.
‍🔬Get tested.

Positive COVID-19 case reports will be updated each weekday. Weekend updates will be included in the Monday report. Click the link for the press release

22 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since March 12, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,626. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are: 😷Wear a mask. 👏Wash your hands. ↔️Keep your distance. 🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces. 🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results. ‍🔬Get tested. Positive COVID-19 case reports will be updated each weekday. Weekend updates will be included in the Monday report. Click the link for the press release.

5 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since March 11, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,604. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are: 😷Wear a mask. 👏Wash your hands. ↔️Keep your distance. 🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces. 🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results. ‍🔬Get tested. Positive COVID-19 case reports will be updated each weekday. Weekend updates will be included in the Monday report. Click the link for the press release.

9 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since March 10, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,599.

We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19.

The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are:

😷Wear a mask.
👏Wash your hands.
↔️Keep your distance.
🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces.
🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results.
‍🔬Get tested.

Positive COVID-19 case reports will be updated each weekday. Weekend updates will be included in the Monday report. Click the link for the press release

5 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since March 9, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,590. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are: 😷Wear a mask. 👏Wash your hands. ↔️Keep your distance. 🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces. 🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results. ‍🔬Get tested. Positive COVID-19 case reports will be updated each weekday. Weekend updates will be included in the Monday report. Click the link for the press release.

Baker-Polito Administration Announces Preregistration System for Mass Vaccination Locations to Launch Friday, Updates on Dose Distribution in the Commonwealth & Designated Vaccine Clinic Days for K-12 Educators, Staff & Child Care Workers

PRESS RELEASE: March 10, 2021

The Baker-Polito Administration today announced a new preregistration signup tool will be available for the state’s 7 mass vaccination sites starting Friday, March 12. The new system will make it easier to request and book an appointment at a mass vaccination site at a nearby location when they are available. More sites will be added to the preregistration system in the coming weeks. When preregistration launches on Friday, it will replace the current booking platforms for mass vaccination sites for online booking. The COVID-19 Vaccine Scheduling Resource Line will be available to help residents without internet access or with difficulty using the internet with the preregistration process.

The Administration also announced the weekly distribution of vaccine doses statewide for different providers, reminding residents that there are 170 public vaccination sites statewide in addition to health systems that are offering appointments to their patients.

More information on vaccine sites can be found at: vaxfinder.mass.gov

The Administration also announced four dedicated educator days at mass vaccination sites and updates on vaccine distribution channels.

Preregistration System
Partnering with the Google Cloud Team, the Administration will launch a preregistration system for mass vaccination sites only starting Friday, March 12, 2021. This tool will be available at mass.gov/COVIDvaccine.

Preregistration will allow eligible residents to book an appointment at one of the state’s 7 mass vaccination sites.

Details on the Preregistration Process:

Eligible residents will complete the online form at mass.gov/COVIDVaccine to request to book an appointment at a mass vaccination site nearby.

After completing the form, residents will get a confirmation via their preferred method of contact (text, e-mail, phone) and receive a weekly update about their status. Residents may opt out of their preregistration at any time if they secure an appointment elsewhere.
When an appointment becomes available at a mass vaccination site, the resident will be notified and will have 24 hours to accept the appointment once it is offered to them. If an appointment is not accepted after 24 hours, the resident will go back into the queue to wait for another appointment.
To accommodate older residents and others who are unable to use the form, the preregistration form allows family members, caregivers or other companions to fill out the form on behalf of someone else. Residents who do not have internet access or someone to fill the form out for them can call 2-1-1 to preregister.
Available appointments will be offered to residents based on their vaccine eligibility and the availability of appointments at mass vaccination sites nearby. Initially, this program is only for the state’s 7 mass vaccination sites. More sites will be added to the pre-registration system in April.

Massachusetts receives a very limited supply of vaccine from the federal government each week. Due to high demand and limited supply, there are only a small number of appointments for eligible residents. Given the limited number of available appointments due to constraints on vaccine supply, it could take several weeks for eligible, preregistered residents to receive a notification about an available appointment.

In addition to preregistering for a mass vaccination appointment, eligible residents are encouraged to book vaccine appointments at any of the 170 public vaccine sites across the Commonwealth. The state has also allocated a supply of doses to certain health care providers, hospitals and community health centers that will provide instructions to their patients on their vaccine process.

Once the preregistration system is launched on Friday, March 12, it will replace the weekly appointment release on Thursdays for mass vaccination sites only. Eligible residents will need to preregister online or contact the call center to request an appointment for a mass vaccination site.

The preregistration system will not impact this week’s appointment release on Thursday, March 11 for mass vaccination sites. Residents should follow the usual process on March 11 to secure an appointment as a mass vaccination site.

Other Ways to Access a Vaccine Appointment:
Eligible residents are encouraged to look for appointments at any of the state’s 170 public vaccine sites by searching vaxfinder.mass.gov.

This webpage contains information on locations, hours and instructions to schedule appointments.

New appointments are added frequently for many sites.

Vaccine doses are also provided to certain health care providers, hospitals, and community health centers. If you are an eligible patient, please follow instructions from your health care provider on how to access a vaccine.

State Distribution:
This week, the state will receive a constrained supply of about 155,000 first doses.

This week, first doses and second dose allocations (total doses), were divided among providers as follows:

Mass vaccination sites: 83,000
Hospital Providers (both private and public): 79,000
Regional Collaboratives (12 total): 38,000
Community Health Centers: 25,000
Local Boards of Health (to complete 2nd dose appointments and support 20 disproportionately impacted communities): 25,000
Weekly allocations are subject to change based on federal availability, demand from providers, and obligations to meet second doses. Providers have 10 days to use their doses.

Federal Doses:
In addition to the state allocation, the federal government distributes vaccines to CVS Health sites as part of the Federal Retail Pharmacy Partnership as well as to certain Massachusetts federally qualified community health centers. These quantities fluctuate on a weekly basis and are not counted as part of the state’s weekly allocation.

This week, 95,000 first and second doses have been allocated to the retail pharmacy program and 19,000 Johnson & Johnson doses have been allocated to the federally qualified health centers.

Individuals looking to book appointments across any of these providers should visit mass.gov/COVIDvaccine to learn more.

Mass Vaccination Appointments:
On Thursday, March 11, over 40,000 new first dose appointments for mass vaccination sites will be made available to eligible groups through the state’s website and the COVID-19 Vaccine Scheduling Resource Line. Additionally, over 40,000 second dose appointments have also been scheduled at mass vaccination sites.

This is the last week that mass vaccination sites will be posted online on Thursday morning. Starting March 12, 2021 all mass vaccination appointments will be booked through the pre-registration system.

As more individuals have received a first vaccine dose across the Commonwealth, there is a greater need to book second appointments, so the mass vaccination sites have fewer first dose appointments available on a weekly basis.

Educator Vaccination Days:
On March 11, pursuant to a federal directive, approximately 400,000 K-12 educators, childcare workers and K-12 school staff are eligible to receive COVID-19 vaccine in Massachusetts.

K-12 educators, childcare workers and K-12 school staff may receive vaccine from any of the 170 public vaccine sites available on mass.gov/COVIDvaccine.

In an effort to support the Biden-Harris Administration’s directive for states to prioritize teacher vaccinations, the Administration will designate 4 days where the state’s 7 mass vaccination sites will only offer 1st dose appointments for K-12 educators, child care workers and K-12 school staff.

These dates are: Saturday, March 27, Saturday, April 3, Saturday, April 10, and Sunday, April 11

Workers in this group must use the pre-registration system to request an appointment at one of the seven mass vaccination sites and attest they are a K-12 educator, childcare worker or K-12 school staff.

All other vaccine providers (including Regional Collaboratives) are encouraged, but not required, to restrict their appointments to K-12 educators, child care workers and K-12 school staff on Saturday, March 27 , Saturday, April 3, Saturday, April 10 and Sunday, April 11, for consistency. Providers may designate alternative dates, in lieu of the 4 dates designated by the State, if necessary.

Clinics may not restrict access to individuals who live or work in a particular area.

All vaccine providers (including regional collaboratives) must submit their dates for educator clinics by Tuesday, March 16. The Command Center will post the schedule for all clinics next week.

K-12 educators, childcare workers and K-12 school staff are urged to book appointments through mass.gov/COVIDvaccine beginning on March 11 as well as to book through the federal retail pharmacy program’s CVS website. Given the limited supply of vaccine, K-12 educators, childcare workers and K-12 school staff may not receive vaccine until mid-April or later.

Mass Vaccination Locations:

Springfield, Eastfield Mall
Natick, Natick Mall
Foxboro, Gillette Stadium
Danvers, Doubletree Hotel
Boston, Fenway Park (through 3/27) and Hynes Convention Center (starting 3/18)
Roxbury, Reggie Lewis Center
Dartmouth, Former Circuit City
Regional Collaboratives:

Barnstable County
Berkshire County Boards of Health Association
Franklin County Regional Collaborative
Harrington Hospital, in Collaboration with LBOH
Heywood Hospital, in Collaboration with LBOH
Lawrence General Hospital, in Collaboration with LBOH
Marshfield-Plymouth
Northampton & Amherst
Randolph – Collaboration between Avon, Holbrook, and Randolph
Rutland
Worcester, Worcester State University, Commonwealth Medicine and St. Vincent Hospital
Lower Merrimack Valley- Collaboration between Amesbury, Georgetown, Groveland, Merrimack, Newbury, Newburyport, Rowley, Salisbury and West Newbury
Southern Worcester County Regional COVID-19 Vaccination Coalition- Collaboration between Uxbridge, Northbridge, Mendon, Douglas, Bellingham, Blackstone, Hopedale, Millville, Milford, Oxford, Upton, Sutton

8 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since March 8, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,585. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are: 😷Wear a mask. 👏Wash your hands. ↔️Keep your distance. 🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces. 🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results. ‍🔬Get tested. Positive COVID-19 case reports will be updated each weekday. Weekend updates will be included in the Monday report. Click the link for the press release.

10 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since March 5, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,577. As of March 7, 2021, 7,379 Shrewsbury residents have been vaccinated (details included in the press release).

We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19.

The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are:

😷Wear a mask.
👏Wash your hands.
↔️Keep your distance.
🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces.
🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results.
‍🔬Get tested.

Positive COVID-19 case reports will be updated each weekday. Weekend updates will be included in the Monday report. Click the link for the press release.

12 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since March 4, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,567. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are: 😷Wear a mask. 👏Wash your hands. ↔️Keep your distance. 🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces. 🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results. ‍🔬Get tested. Positive COVID-19 case reports will be updated each weekday. Weekend updates will be included in the Monday report. If there are not new cases for that day, we will not be reporting. Click the link for the press release.

3 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since March 3, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,555. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are: 😷Wear a mask. 👏Wash your hands. ↔️Keep your distance. 🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces. 🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results. ‍🔬Get tested. Positive COVID-19 case reports will be updated each weekday. Weekend updates will be included in the Monday report. If there are not new cases for that day, we will not be reporting. Click the link for the press release.

13 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since March 2, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,552.

We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19.

The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are:

😷Wear a mask.
👏Wash your hands.
↔️Keep your distance.
🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces.
🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results.
‍🔬Get tested.

Positive COVID-19 case reports will be updated each weekday. Weekend updates will be included in the Monday report. If there are not new cases for that day, we will not be reporting. Click the link for the press release.

Today, the Baker-Polito Administration announced that K-12 educators, child care workers and K-12 school staff will be eligible to schedule COVID-19 vaccine appointments starting March 11th.

This group of workers will join the current eligible groups (including 65+ and individuals with 2+ certain medical conditions).

The Administration also released details on available appointments for the upcoming week.

Teacher Vaccines
Beginning March 11th, all K-12 educators, child care workers and K-12 school staff will be eligible to schedule appointments for the COVID-19 vaccine. Educators may book appointments at all 170 sites currently open to eligible residents in Massachusetts by visiting www.mass.gov/covidvaccinemap .

Additionally, the Command Center will work to designate specific days at the seven mass vaccination sites for educators to get their shots. More details will be released soon.

There are approximately 400,000 K-12 educators, child care workers and K-12 school staff in Massachusetts. Due to a severely constrained federal supply and the existing population that is currently eligible for vaccines, it is estimated that it will take a month for all eligible individuals to secure a first appointment. This timeframe is only subject to change if federal supply increases dramatically, including the recently authorized Johnson & Johnson vaccine.

Vaccine Appointments
This week, we anticipate over 250,000 doses will be administered between first and second doses across all providers throughout the Commonwealth.

On Thursday, March 4, 12,000 new first appointments for mass vaccination sites will be made available to eligible groups. Over 45,000 new second dose appointments have also been scheduled at mass vaccination sites.

The number of new appointments (first dose appointments) is less than previous weeks due to the volume of second dose appointments. 7,500 appointments have also been booked by the call center (211) for older adults who were unable to use a computer to book an appointment and required assistance.

As more individuals have received a first vaccine dose across the Commonwealth, there is a greater need to book second appointments, so the mass vaccination sites have fewer first dose appointments available on a weekly basis.

Later next week, a new Regional Collaboration will go live: the Lower Merrimack Valley regional collaboration, to include the City of Amesbury, Georgetown, Groveland, Merrimac, Newbury, Newburyport, Rowley, Salisbury and West Newbury. Details on this collaborative will be on the website at mass.gov/covidvaccinemap next week.

Johnson & Johnson Vaccine
The COVID-19 Command Center was notified that Massachusetts is receiving only one shipment of 58,000 doses for the month of March. These doses have been allocated – primarily to hospitals and health systems.

Based on information the Commonwealth has received from the federal government, the Administration does not expect to be able to order more J&J doses until the end of March or early April.

While the Commonwealth is receiving limited doses of the J&J vaccine in March, the Administration is continuing to plan for eventual widespread distribution of the J&J vaccine.

Please visit Mass.Gov/CovidVaccine to find out when you’re eligible and to schedule an appointment or call the MA hotline at 211.

Please be advised that the Town of Shrewsbury is reporting no new positive cases of COVID-19 since March 1, 2021. The cumulative total remains 2,539, as it was on March 1, 2021.

We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19.

The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are:

😷Wear a mask.
👏Wash your hands.
↔️Keep your distance.
🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces.
🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results.
‍🔬Get tested.

Positive COVID-19 case reports will be updated each weekday. Weekend updates will be included in the Monday report. If there are not new cases for that day, we will not be reporting. Click the link for the press release.

18 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since February 26, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,539. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are: 😷Wear a mask. 👏Wash your hands. ↔️Keep your distance. 🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces. 🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results. 👨‍🔬Get tested. Positive COVID-19 case reports will be updated each weekday. Weekend updates will be included in the Monday report. Click the link below for the press release.

4 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since February 25, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,521. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are: 😷Wear a mask. 👏Wash your hands. ↔️Keep your distance. 🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces. 🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results. 👨‍🔬Get tested. Positive COVID-19 case reports will be updated each weekday. Weekend updates and vaccination data will be included in the Monday report. Click the link below for the press release.

11 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since February 24, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,517. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19.

The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are:

😷Wear a mask.

👏Wash your hands.

↔️Keep your distance.

🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces.

🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results.

👨‍🔬Get tested.

Positive COVID-19 case reports will be updated each weekday. Weekend updates and vaccination data will be included in the Monday report. Click the link below for the press release.

Governor Baker, Lt. Governor Polito, and Secretary Kennealy made several announcements pertaining to the state’s reopening process and sector specific guidance. These include:

Phase 3, Step 2: Effective March 1, 2021, the Commonwealth will move forward into Phase 3, Step 2. This will reopen:
Indoor performance venues such as concert halls, theaters, and other indoor performance spaces
o Open at 50% capacity with 500 person maximum

Indoor recreational activities with greater potential for contact: laser tag, roller skating, trampolines, obstacle courses
o Open at 50% capacity



Updated Capacity Limits: Effective March 1, 2021, the following industries will increase to 50% capacity.

Employees will be exempt from capacity restrictions in all of these industries:
Arcades & Other Indoor and Outdoor Recreation Businesses
Close Contact Personal Services
Driving and Flight Schools
Fitness Centers and Health Clubs
Golf Facilities (indoor)
Libraries
Operators of Lodging (common spaces)
Museums, Cultural & Historic Facilities, Guided Tours
Office Spaces
Places of Worship
Sectors not Otherwise Addressed
Theaters and Performance Venues
Relevant EEA Industries – Youth sports spectators etc.

The following industries remain unaffected by capacity limits:
o Drive in movie theaters

o Construction

o Laboratories

o Manufacturing



Additional Guidance Changes:
Effective March 1, 2021, Restaurants will no longer be subject to a % seated capacity limit and their capacity is limited only by the requirement of 6 feet between tables
o Musical performances allowed in restaurants (with appropriate distancing)

o 90 minute time limit on tables stays in place

o Limit of no more than 6 per table stays in place

o Food courts remain closed

Effective March 1, 2021, Fitting rooms may open in all retail businesses


Gatherings Limit: Effective March 22, 2021, subject to public health data, the gatherings limit will increase for event venues and public settings, but will stay the same in private settings*:
Event Venues and Public Settings:
o 100 indoors

o 150 outdoors

*Private Settings (such as private residences):
o 10 indoors

o 25 outdoors



Phase 4, Step 1: Effective March 22, 2021, subject to public health data, the Commonwealth will move into Phase 4, Step 1:
Indoor and outdoor stadiums, arenas and ballparks will reopen with a 12% capacity limit
o A large venue is defined as a having a capacity of 5,000 or more

o Venues with capacity under 5,000 are subject to the Indoor and Outdoor Performance Venue guidance

o Large venues will be required to submit a safety plan to the Department of Public Health

Overnight Camps will be allowed to open for Summer 2021
Exhibition and Convention Halls may reopen, subject to gathering limits and event rules
Dance floors may open at weddings and events only

All other Phase 4 industries will not be able to open until a future reopening step. Those include:
o Road races, street festivals, and parades, and fairs

o Amusement parks, theme parks, outdoor water parks

o Indoor water parks and indoor / outdoor ball pits

o Saunas, hot-tubs, steam rooms at fitness centers, health clubs, and other facilities

o Beer gardens / breweries / wineries / distilleries

o Bars, dance clubs, and nightclubs—venues offering entertainment, beverages, or dancing and not providing seated food service


Updated guidance can be found at www.mass.gov/reopening

The Baker-Polito Administration announced a new $4.7 million initiative to promote COVID-19 vaccine equity in the 20 communities most disproportionately impacted by the pandemic. The Administration also announced 11 high-efficiency regional vaccination collaboratives involving local health officials and other regional partners.

Vaccination Appointments: Today, around 50,000 new appointments will be added at mass vaccination locations across the Commonwealth. This includes the mass vaccination locations at Fenway Park, Gillette Stadium, Springfield, Danvers, Dartmouth and Natick. Retail pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens will also administer over 20,000 doses next week as well.

Residents can go to www.mass.gov/COVIDvaccine this morning to find and schedule their appointments. Appointment availability is very limited due to the constrained supply of vaccine doses that the Commonwealth is receiving from the federal government.

Click the link below for more information.

8 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since February 23, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,506. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are: 😷Wear a mask. 👏Wash your hands. ↔️Keep your distance. 🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces. 🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results. 👨‍🔬Get tested. Positive COVID-19 case reports will be updated each weekday. Weekend updates and vaccination data will be included in the Monday report. Click the link below for the press release.

11 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since February 22, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,498. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19.

The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are:

😷Wear a mask.

👏Wash your hands.

↔️Keep your distance.

🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces.

🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results.

👨‍🔬Get tested.

Positive COVID-19 case reports will be updated each weekday. Weekend updates and vaccination data will be included in the Monday report. Click the link below for the press release.

16 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since February 19, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,487. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are: 😷Wear a mask. 👏Wash your hands. ↔️Keep your distance. 🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces. 🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results. 👨‍🔬Get tested. Positive COVID-19 case reports will be updated each weekday. Weekend updates and vaccination data will be included in the Monday report. Click the link below for the press release.

4 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since February 18, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,471. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are: 😷Wear a mask. 👏Wash your hands. ↔️Keep your distance. 🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces. 🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results. 👨‍🔬Get tested. Positive COVID-19 case reports will be updated each weekday. Weekend updates and vaccination data will be included in the Monday report. Click the link below for the press release.

11 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since February 17, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,467. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are: 😷Wear a mask. 👏Wash your hands. ↔️Keep your distance. 🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces. 🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results. 👨‍🔬Get tested. Positive COVID-19 case reports will be updated each weekday. Weekend updates and vaccination data will be included in the Monday report. Click the link below for the press release.

3 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since February 16, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,456. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19.

The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are:

😷Wear a mask.

👏Wash your hands.

↔️Keep your distance.

🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces.

🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results.

👨‍🔬Get tested.

Positive COVID-19 case reports will be updated each weekday. Weekend updates and vaccination data will be included in the Monday report. Click the link below for the press release.

Baker-Polito Administration: Vaccine Distribution & Additional Eligible Groups in Phase 2

PRESS RELEASE: February 17, 2021

Letter from Secretary Sudders
Important information about the state’s effort regarding vaccination distribution, where demand vastly exceeds current supply. The Baker-Polito Administration is committed to the effective, efficient and equitable administration of vaccines throughout the state. According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), Massachusetts, on February 16, 2021 was #9 in the U.S. for vaccinations per capita (1st doses/capita). Massachusetts was #1 for total shots administered per capita (this past week) amongst the 24 states with at least 5M people, according to Bloomberg. As of Monday, February 15, 2021, more than 251,000 of our residents ages 75 or older have received their 1st dose. This represents 51% of the statewide population, exceeding the national average of 47% of residents 75+ that have received their first dose.

First and foremost, I want to acknowledge the incredible efforts throughout the pandemic. Local health departments, community health centers, regional collaboratives, hospitals, large health systems and others quickly ramped up their capacity to provide vaccinations. Many local boards of health stepped up to vaccinate first responders and some continued to vaccinate individuals eligible in Phase 1 and those age 75 and older. The Baker-Polito Administration is deeply thankful for municipal collaboration in the early, targeted steps of the vaccination effort.

On February 17, 2021, the Baker-Polito Administration announced that effective February 18, 2021, individuals age 65 or older, individuals with two or more specific medical conditions, listed HERE, and residents and staff of public and private low income and affordable senior housing are eligible to receive this vaccine. With this announcement, 1 million individuals will become eligible for the vaccine.

Streamlined Vaccination Distribution
As the Commonwealth moves forward and as a million residents become eligible, the Administration must streamline the vaccine distribution process in anticipation of this challenge and within the confines of limited vaccine supply provided by the federal government. The Commonwealth has been receiving approximately 110,000 new first doses each week.

High-capacity throughput vaccination, available across the Commonwealth, is important to ensuring vaccines do not sit idle. To avoid confusion and increase access, vaccination locations must be available to all residents and not narrowly restricted by geography. Currently, almost 95% of our population lives within a 45-minute drive of a mass vaccination site or within 30 minutes of a regional site. This is in addition to the growing number of pharmacies and other retail locations administering doses, currently numbered at 105.

Equity
In addition to increasing efficiency in administering the vaccine, the Commonwealth must ensure that the program is equitable and meets the needs of communities that have been most disproportionately impacted by COVID-19. Utilizing the social vulnerability index as a starting point, the Department of Public Health has identified 20 municipalities that have had the greatest COVID burden and have the greatest percentage of non- white residents.

These municipalities are:

Boston; Brockton; Chelsea; Everett; Fall River; Fitchburg; Framingham; Haverhill; Holyoke; Lawrence;
Leominster; Lowell; Lynn; Malden; Methuen; New Bedford; Randolph; Revere; Springfield; and Worcester.

Public Health Commissioner Monica Bharel has reached out to these municipal leaders to assist with increasing awareness, to address vaccine hesitancy and to mitigate barriers to vaccine access. These municipalities will continue to distribute vaccine at the local level, are prioritized for the retail pharmacy program, and are served by community health centers, hospitals and other health care providers administering vaccine in the community.

Serving the most vulnerable
The Commonwealth is fortunate that so many local public health officials want to help vaccinate their residents. Given the constraints on vaccine supply, the Administration is asking our local officials to focus efforts around outreach to vulnerable, hard to reach populations, including homebound seniors, individuals who participate in ‘meals on wheels’ and others who are eligible but not able to travel to a vaccine site. Local officials are more adept at identifying and meeting these high need populations and can arrange for them to be vaccinated either by the local board of health, connect them to community providers or refer to the State’s vaccination program for homebound individuals, which will launch in the coming weeks.

Regional Collaboration
Additionally, municipalities may propose regional collaborations that meet specific geographic needs identified by the state and must meet specific requirements including:

• Have the capacity to vaccinate minimally 750 individuals per day, 5 days per week;

• Serve unmet need geographically, as identified by the MA Department of Public Health (MDPH);

• Meet an administration rate threshold of 85% and report doses within 24 hours;

• Serve all residents of the Commonwealth; collaborations may focus outreach efforts towards those who live or work in the area but must be open to all Massachusetts residents; and

• Provide public links for vaccine appointments on Mass.gov/COVIDVaccine.



Other important ways for municipalities to engage in the Commonwealth’s vaccine program include:

• Promote vaccine acceptance by establishing COVID ambassador programs, providing tele-townhalls or developing messaging campaigns in multiple languages;

• Encourage and assist residents to utilize mass vaccination sites and retail pharmacies for vaccination;

• Plan, develop or coordinate vaccine programs for residents living in public and private low income and affordable senior housing; or

• Identify, plan and organize vaccination of homebound residents who are unable to access any other vaccination program as they become eligible.

Effective the week of March 1, 2021, the state will no longer provide first dose vaccines for individual municipal clinics, except for the twenty disproportionately impacted communities and established and approved Regional Collaboratives. Municipalities will receive second doses to ensure that all residents have been fully vaccinated by individual local board of health clinics.

On February 19, 2021 at 9:00 a.m., the MA Department of Public Health (MDPH) will hold a webinar for local boards of health to review the opportunities to distribute vaccine as outlined above. The Department will answer questions and provide a specific how-to-guide for municipalities to reach the most vulnerable residents.

This is a shared responsibility and herculean effort to offer safe and effective vaccines to millions of Massachusetts residents. Working together, state and local government along with our health care partners can meet this challenge and ensure that every Massachusetts resident will have the opportunity to be vaccinated.

State Public Health Officials Announce First Identification of South Africa COVID Variant in Massachusetts

PRESS RELEASE: 02-16-21

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH) today announced the first case of the B.1.351 COVID-19 variant identified in the Commonwealth. Genetic sequencing completed at the Broad Institute on behalf of DPH has confirmed the variant, which was originally identified in South Africa.

The case is a female in her 20s who resides in Middlesex County; she has had no reported travel.

The B.1.351 variant is known to spread easily. The Massachusetts State Public Health Laboratory is working in collaboration with many healthcare and academic partners to quickly identify variants of concern by sequencing a subset of positive samples.

Two other variants of concern are the B.1.1.7 originally found in the United Kingdom, and the P.1 variant, which was originally detected in Brazil.

Currently, there are 34 cases of the B.1.1.7 variant in Massachusetts; there are no confirmed cases of the P.1.

The best defense against a rapid rise in cases from variants of concern is to prevent the spread of COVID.

New information from CDC shows that improving the fit and filtration of masks helps reduce the spread of the virus. Mask fit can be improved by using a mask with a nose wire and by using a mask fitter or by knotting the ear loops and tucking the sides. Mask filtration is improved by using multiple layers. Learn more about how to use masks to protect yourself and others at Improve the Fit and Filtration of Your Mask to Reduce the Spread of COVID-19 | CDC.

Other critical public health measures to help prevent the spread of COVID include social distancing (staying 6 feet away from others), avoiding groups, staying home when you are sick, getting tested if you have symptoms or are identified as a close contact of someone with COVID, and getting vaccinated when it is your turn.

Learn more about variants of concern at New Variants of the Virus that Causes COVID-19 | CDC and track their presence in both Massachusetts and the US at US COVID-19 Cases Caused by Variants | CDC.

33 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since February 12, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,453. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19.

The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are:

Wear a mask.
Wash your hands.
Keep your distance.
Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces.
Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results.
Get tested.
Positive COVID-19 case reports will be updated each weekday. Weekend updates and vaccination data will be included in the Monday report. Click the link below for the press release.

Baker-Polito Administration Launches Targeted Outreach Initiative in 20 Hardest Hit Communities to Increase Equity in COVID-19 Vaccine Awareness and Access; $1M to Support Vaccination in Historically Underserved Communities

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: February 16, 2021

CONTACT: Ann Scales - ann.scales@mass.gov

Targeted Outreach Initiative:
The Department of Public Health (DPH) will invest resources directly in the 20 cities and towns most disproportionately impacted by COVID-19 to increase awareness of the vaccine’s safety and efficacy and to reduce barriers to vaccination. DPH will assist each city or town by working with local leaders, and community- and faith-based groups to strengthen existing efforts focused on awareness and overcoming barriers so that residents will get vaccinated when it’s their turn.

The initiative will focus on 20 cities and towns with the greatest COVID-19 case burden, taking into account social determinants of health and the disproportionate impact of COVID-19 on BIPOC. These communities are Boston, Brockton, Chelsea, Everett, Fall River, Fitchburg, Framingham, Haverhill, Holyoke, Lawrence, Leominster, Lowell, Lynn, Malden, Methuen, New Bedford, Randolph, Revere, Springfield, and Worcester.

Massachusetts now ranks in the Top 10 for vaccinations per capita according to the CDC and last week administered more doses per week than it received from the federal government.

How Cities/Towns were Identified:
This list of 20 is a subset of the cities and towns that met the Massachusetts COVID Advisory Group recommendation to prioritize communities using the CDC’s Social Vulnerability Index (SVI) and COVID-19 case rates since the start of the pandemic. Those communities were then ranked by average daily COVID-19 case rates in each city and town (excluding cases in long-term care and correctional facilities and communities with under 30,000 residents). From this ranked list by case rate, the top 17 cities and towns with the highest percentage of people of color were identified. The list of 20 cities and towns includes three additional communities to capture the top 15 communities with the highest daily COVID case rates.

“We recognize the deep knowledge and expertise that exists in every community and our aim is to listen, respond, and work in concert to develop a customized approach for reaching as many residents as we can to increase vaccination,” said Public Health Commissioner Monica Bharel, MD, MPH. “This approach is centered on equity, a core pillar of our vaccine distribution. Our goal is to work in collaboration with our local communities, to meet people where they are, and to reduce barriers – both physical and otherwise – to getting the COVID vaccine.”

The new DPH initiative will support a tailored community-based approach around the individual needs identified by each municipality. As part of the outreach, a DPH Community Liaison will work to leverage and coordinate state resources and customize a menu of options to be offered to each community, which may include:

· Identifying gaps and mapping available resources to reduce barriers to vaccination

· Coordinating and supporting key stakeholders including Local Boards of Health, local Community and Faith-Based Organizations, Community Health Centers, and Community Health Workers who can support grassroots outreach

· Deploying DPH Vaccine Ambassadors to provide support for town halls and other local forums to share information and materials, including a DPH forum guide and toolkit

· Disseminating culturally appropriate translations of communications campaign materials, including Trust the Facts. Get the Vax. campaign materials and vaccine FAQs in multiple languages

· Hiring local residents to provide “boots on the ground” for neighborhood and local business outreach, which may include a door-knocking campaign to provide information and answer questions about vaccine efficacy and safety

$1 Million to Support Vaccination in Historically Underserved Communities:
The Administration has invested $1M in the MA League of Community Health Centers to support community health center efforts to increase vaccine safety awareness in communities disproportionately impacted by COVID-19, with the goal of addressing vaccine hesitancy and increasing COVID-19 vaccination rates for individuals and communities disproportionately impacted.

The program has three main objectives:

Increase Community Health Center and community engagement staff vaccine confidence and knowledge
Implement dissemination of culturally relevant and linguistically diverse patient education materials
Identify and partner with local community-based organizations to provide information and tips to engage people in vaccination conversations
This grant initiative is a critical piece of the MA League of Community Health Center’s COVID-19 Vaccine Community Engagement Campaign and recognizes that Community Health Centers, community health workers and other community-facing outreach workers are critical and widely trusted individuals to address COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy among the most at-risk communities.

Under the initiative, qualified health centers may apply for $25,000 grants via the MA League of Community Health Centers to assist Community Health Workers (CHW) to engage patients and community members in vaccination discussions to increase vaccine uptake in the Commonwealth’s hardest-hit communities. The funding helps health centers in several critical ways, including supporting providers and staff in having one-to-one conversations with patients to answer their questions and concerns, bringing these individualized dialogues to the broader community, and using online and other communication channels and resources.

8 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since February 11, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,420. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are: 😷Wear a mask. 👏Wash your hands. ↔️Keep your distance. 🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces. 🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results. 👨‍🔬Get tested. Positive COVID-19 case reports will be updated each weekday. The Town will not be reporting on Monday, February 15, 2021. These case and vaccination totals, along with weekend cases, will be reported on the next reporting day of Tuesday, February 16, 2021. Click the link below for the press release.

12 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since February 10, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,412. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are: 😷Wear a mask. 👏Wash your hands. ↔️Keep your distance. 🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces. 🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results. 👨‍🔬Get tested. Positive COVID-19 case reports will be updated each weekday. Weekend updates and vaccination data will be included in the Monday report. Click the link below for the press release.

Baker-Polito Administration: Announcements on COVID-19 Vaccine Capacity and New Vaccination Sites

Press Release: 02-10-21

Appointments continue to be added at vaccination sites statewide. On February 11, 2021 at 8:30 A.M., 53,000 new appointments at mass vaccination sites will be posted online at the following locations: Eastfield Mall in Springfield, Gillette Stadium in Foxboro, and Fenway Park in Boston.

Over the course of this week, over 50,000 pharmacy appointments will be added on a daily basis and another 14,000 appointments will be added at 35 community health centers across MA. Other provider sites, like health care providers and local vaccine clinics, are adding almost 40,000 appointments over the course of this week.

All appointments can be scheduled online by visiting Mass.Gov/COVIDVaccine or residents 75+ can call 2-1-1 to get assistance in booking an appointment if they’re unable to utilize the website.

MA will continue to add capacity through mass vaccination sites which are high output locations where vaccines can be administered quickly and efficiently.

Two new mass vaccination sites will open later this month:

The Natick Mall in Natick on February 22, 2021
Circuit City in Dartmouth on February 24, 2021
Both sites will be open to all eligible residents and will start with approximately 500 doses per day, scaling up at the Dartmouth site to approximately 2,000 doses per day, and the Natick site will scale up to approximately 3,000 doses per day.

Appointments for both new sites will be available to book on Mass.Gov/COVIDVaccine beginning on February 18, 2021.

75+ Caregiver Eligibility

On February 1, 2021, vaccination administration began for residents 75+. These residents have been getting shots for the last 10 days and during that time we have learned that some people might be hesitant to go to a mass vaccination location without a relative or a caregiver. This policy goes into effect on February 11, 2021. It is not applicable for appointments that have already been booked.

To support more 75+ residents getting to a mass vax site, we are announcing a new policy to allow one caregiver to join a 75+ resident and also schedule their own appointment for a vaccine at the same time. Any caregiver is eligible to receive the vaccine at the same time as the 75+ resident, provided they have an appointment.

While this policy change applies specifically to the mass vaccination locations, Local Boards of Health (LBOH)-run clinics may choose to also allow for this. Information about eligibility will need to be changed by the LBOH in their clinic descriptions and information should be shared with your Council on Aging (COAs) and others for consistent messaging.

Caregivers will be required to self-attest that they are accompanying a 75+ resident who could not otherwise get to or navigate the online vaccination site when they fill out the attestation form (including the attestation form in PrepMod).

Appointments for 75+ residents and their caregivers should be scheduled for the same day, as close together as possible.

If both the caregiver and 75+ resident are unable to use or have difficultly accessing the internet, they may call 2-1-1 for assistance booking both appointments.

Please visit https://shrewsburyma.gov/DocumentCenter/View/9106/COVID19-Vaccine-75-plus-Companion-Information-2102021 for additional information about the caregiver / companion eligibility (Massachusetts Caregiver / Companion COVID-19 Vaccine Eligibility.

11 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since February 9, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,400. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19.

The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are:

😷Wear a mask.

👏Wash your hands.

↔️Keep your distance.

🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces.

🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results.

👨‍🔬Get tested.



Positive COVID-19 case reports will be updated each weekday. Weekend updates and vaccination data will be included in the Monday report. Click the link below for the press release.

8 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since February 8, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,389. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19.

The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are:

😷Wear a mask.

👏Wash your hands.

↔️Keep your distance.

🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces.

🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results.

👨‍🔬Get tested.



Positive COVID-19 case reports will be updated each weekday. Weekend updates and vaccination data will be included in the Monday report. Click the link below for the press release.

The Town of Shrewsbury has a limited number COVID-19 Pfizer vaccine appointments available for tomorrow, Wednesday February 10, 2021 from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm at the Worcester Senior Center, 128 Providence Street, Worcester, MA. These appointments are limited to Shrewsbury residents ages 75 and over. You will be turned away if you do not meet this criteria.

https://www.maimmunizations.org/client/registration?clinic_id=1685

33 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since February 5, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,381. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19.

The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are:

😷Wear a mask.

👏Wash your hands.

↔️Keep your distance.

🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces.

🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results.

👨‍🔬Get tested.



Positive COVID-19 case reports will be updated each weekday. Weekend updates and vaccination data will be included in the Monday report. Click the link below for the press release.

27 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since February 4, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,348. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are: 😷Wear a mask. 👏Wash your hands. ↔️Keep your distance. 🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces. 🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results. 👨‍🔬Get tested. Positive COVID-19 case reports will be updated each weekday. Weekend updates will be included in the Monday report. Click the link below for the press release.

Residents age 75+ may now call 2-1-1 to reach the Massachusetts Vaccine Scheduling Resource Line for assistance in scheduling a COVID-19 vaccine if they do not have access to the internet. The hotline is available in English and Spanish and will have translators available to support residents in approximately 100 additional languages. Individuals will be able to speak to a representative live on the phone to assist them with an appointment through the state's online system. If no appointments are available, callers will have the option to be placed on a call back list for the mass vaccination sites. The caller will receive a call back when an appointment becomes available for them at a mass vaccination site, and the list will be called on a first-come, first-served basis. Hours of Operation: Monday to Friday 8:30AM - 5:00PM.

For Immediate Release: February 5, 2021 - The Town of Shrewsbury would like to share the following information about the distribution of the COVID-19 vaccine for our residents. Click the link for the press release.

IMPORTANT - Changes to sector-specific capacity: Effective February 8, 2021 at 5:00 A.M.


1. Lifting 25% Capacity Restriction

All businesses in the list below, currently limited to 25% capacity, will return to 40% capacity, as previously allowed. (The sector-specific industry standards dated in December 2020 will apply.)

Arcades and Recreational Businesses
Driving and Flight Schools
Gyms / Health Clubs
Libraries
Museums
Retail
Offices
Places of Worship
Lodging (common areas)
Golf (indoor areas)
Movie theaters (no more than 50 people per theater)
Restaurants will now be limited to 40% of their seated capacity and, as under the 25% capacity rule, employees will not count toward the limit.

Close Contact Personal Services will now be limited to 40% capacity and, as under the 25% capacity rule, employees will be not count toward the limit.

A limit of 5 people per 1,000 sq. feet applies for smaller businesses without an available fire occupancy capacity
There continues to be no capacity limits on manufacturing, construction, and laboratories. Note: these sectors have never had capacity limits.



2. Gatherings Order (Order No. 62)

The gatherings limit will stay at 10 indoors, 25 outdoors


3. The Commonwealth remains in Phase 3 Step 1 of Reopening (Order No. 58)

Indoor performance venues and indoor recreation businesses like roller rinks and trampoline parks remain closed.


4. All changes are effective Monday, February 8, 2021 at 5:00 A.M.

15 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since February 3, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,321. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19.

The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are:

😷Wear a mask.

👏Wash your hands.

↔️Keep your distance.

🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces.

🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results.

👨‍🔬Get tested.



Positive COVID-19 case reports will be updated each weekday. Weekend updates will be included in the Monday report. Click the link below for the press release.

11 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since February 2, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,306. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are: 😷Wear a mask. 👏Wash your hands. ↔️Keep your distance. 🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces. 🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results. 👨‍🔬Get tested. Positive COVID-19 case reports will be updated each weekday. Weekend updates will be included in the Monday report. Click the link below for the press release.

11 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since February 1, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,295. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are: 😷Wear a mask. 👏Wash your hands. ↔️Keep your distance. 🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces. 🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results. 👨‍🔬Get tested. Positive COVID-19 case reports will be updated each weekday. Weekend updates will be included in the Monday report. Click the link below for the press release.

35 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since January 29, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,284. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are: 😷Wear a mask. 👏Wash your hands. ↔️Keep your distance. 🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces. 🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results. 👨‍🔬Get tested. Positive COVID-19 case reports will be updated each weekday. Weekend updates will be included in the Monday report. Click the link below for the press release.

5 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since January 28, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,249. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are: 😷Wear a mask. 👏Wash your hands. ↔️Keep your distance. 🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces. 🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results. 👨‍🔬Get tested. Positive COVID-19 case reports will be updated each weekday. Weekend updates will be included in the Monday report. Click the link below for the press release.

13 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since January 27, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,244. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19.

The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are:

😷Wear a mask.

👏Wash your hands.

↔️Keep your distance.

🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces.

🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results.

👨‍🔬Get tested.

Positive COVID-19 case reports will be updated each weekday. Weekend updates will be included in the Monday report. Click the link below for the press release.

17 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since January 26, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,231. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19.

The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are:

😷Wear a mask.

👏Wash your hands.

↔️Keep your distance.

🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces.

🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results.

👨‍🔬Get tested.



Positive COVID-19 case reports will be updated each weekday. Weekend updates will be included in the Monday report. Click the link below for the press release.

5 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since January 25, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,214. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19.

The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are:

😷Wear a mask.

👏Wash your hands.

↔️Keep your distance.

🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces.

🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results.

👨‍🔬Get tested.



Positive COVID-19 case reports will be updated each weekday. Weekend updates will be included in the Monday report. Click the link below for the press release.

44 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since January 22, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,209. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are: 😷Wear a mask. 👏Wash your hands. ↔️Keep your distance. 🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces. 🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results. 👨‍🔬Get tested. Positive COVID-19 case reports will be updated each weekday. Weekend updates will be included in the Monday report. Click the link below for the press release.

Baker-Polito Administration: COVID-19 Vaccine Update - Phase 2 - February 1, 2021:

The Baker-Polito Administration announced an expansion of COVID-19 vaccination sites in all parts of the Commonwealth, including new mass vaccination sites, pharmacy locations and local sites.

The Administration also announced updates to plans for Phase Two of the Commonwealth’s distribution plan. Individuals 75 years or older will now be the first priority group in Phase Two, and individuals 65 years and older have been moved into the second priority group, in addition to individuals with two comorbidities. Starting on February 1 individuals age 75 or older can be vaccinated. Vaccination sites can be found on the Commonwealth’s map at mass.gov/COVIDVaccineMap.



Vaccine Sites:
The Commonwealth’s ability to reach vaccination capacity will depend on the federal government sending larger quantities in the coming weeks. We’ll continue to build capacity in anticipation that the supply will increase. At the moment, MA has received and distributed 98% of our total allocation from the federal government.

Mass.gov/COVIDVaccine has details on eligibility and a map of open vaccination sites and sites that are coming online soon. The map allows those who are eligible to make appointments.

Vaccination Sites are established in every region to provide maximum efficiency, geographic spread and equity for all residents.

In addition to mass vaccination sites at Gillette Stadium and Fenway Park, sites will open in Springfield, Danvers, and Roxbury. The Springfield site is opening January 29, 2021 at the Eastfield Mall. The Danvers site is opening February 3, 2021 at the Double Tree Hilton Hotel. The City of Boston will open the Reggie Lewis Center the first week of February.

Eligible residents in Phase One will be able to schedule appointments online for the Fenway, Springfield and Danvers sites beginning January 27, 2021.

Pharmacy and retail locations like the Big Y, Wegmans, Price Chopper, Hannaford, Stop and Shop, and CVS Health will also be opening over the next few weeks to create more equitable access to all communities.

Phase TWO Priority group update:
Phase Two vaccinations will begin for the first priority group, that is everyone over the age of 75 starting on February 1, 2021.

As each of the priority groups become available, please visit: Mass.gov/COVIDVaccine to view the map* detailing vaccine locations and how to register. This map will continually be updated as additional vaccine sites present themselves.

Consistent with CDC guidance, we are also moving residents age 65 and older ahead in the order. This group will start getting vaccines after residents age 75 and older. Phase 2 will now be as follows:

Adults that are age 75 and older
Adults that are age 65 and older and individuals with 2+ comorbidities
Early education and K-12 workers, transit, utility, food and agriculture, sanitation, public works, and public health workers, and Individuals with one comorbidity.
People with serious medical conditions should contact their doctors about how that impacts eligibility.

Effective today, January 22, 2021, ONLY ELIGIBLE populations within PHASE 1 who RESIDE or WORK in the below municipalities (these towns are part of the Central MA Regional Public Health Alliance (CMRPHA) may schedule a COVID-19 vaccine through the Worcester Department of Public Health's Mega Emergency Dispensing site located at the Worcester Senior Center, 128 Providence Street, Worcester, MA 01604.

Shrewsbury
Holden
Millbury
West Boylston
Worcester
Grafton
The MA Department of Public Health (MDPH) has collapsed Phase 1 so that all subcategories in that phase are eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine.

Please click the link below for the link to the page clearly defines all of the eligible individuals in Phase 1, and more information.

16 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since January 21, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,165. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are: 😷Wear a mask. 👏Wash your hands. ↔️Keep your distance. 🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces. 🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results. 👨‍🔬Get tested. Positive COVID-19 case reports will be updated each weekday. Weekend updates will be included in the Monday report. Click the link below for the press release.

On January 21, 2021, the Baker-Polito Administration provided announcements regarding rescinding the Stay at Home Order and the Early Closure of Business Order.

1. Effective Monday, January 25, 2021 at 5:00 A.M., the Stay at Home Advisory for the hours of 10:00 P.M. - 5:00 A.M. is rescinded.

2. Effective Monday, January, 2021 at 5:00 A.M., the Mandatory Early Closure of Businesses Order requiring certain businesses to close by 9:30 P.M. will be rescinded.

On Monday, January 25, 2021 at 5:00 A.M., the following businesses and activities listed below may operate past 9:30 P.M.:

- Restaurants

- Arcades & Other Indoor & Outdoor Recreation (Phase 3, Step 1 businesses only)

- Indoor and Outdoor Events

- Movie Theaters and Outdoor Performance Venues

- Drive-In Movie Theaters

- Youth and Adult Amateur Sports Activities

- Golf Facilities

- Recreational Boating and Boating Businesses (e.g. charter boats)

- Outdoor Recreational Experiences

- Casinos and Horse Tracks / Simulcast Facilities

- Driving and Flight Schools

- Zoos, Botanical Gardens, Wildlife Reserves, Nature Centers

- Close Contact Personal Services (e.g. hair and nail salons)

- Museums/Cultural & Historical Facilities/Guided Tours

- Gyms/Fitness Centers and Health Clubs

- Indoor and Outdoor Pools

Gatherings may go beyond 9:30 P.M.

Liquor stores and other retail establishments that sell alcohol may sell alcohol past 9:30 P.M.; adult use cannabis retailers may also sell cannabis after 9:30 P.M.

Note – Phase 3, Step 2 businesses must remain fully closed



3. The 25% temporary capacity and gathering limits remain in place until 5:00 A.M. on Monday, February 8, 2021.

14 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since January 20, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,149. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are: 😷Wear a mask. 👏Wash your hands. ↔️Keep your distance. 🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces. 🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results. 👨‍🔬Get tested. Positive COVID-19 case reports will be updated each weekday. Weekend updates will be included in the Monday report. Click the link below for the press release.

COVID-19 Vaccine update for Phase ONE
Effective January 21, 2021

Per the MA Department of Public Health (MDPH), effective January 21, 2021, vaccination eligibility is open to include the next two priority groups within Phase One.

Details of those who are eligible under the Home-based health care workers and Health care workers doing non-COVID-facing care groups can be found at the distribution timeline link by visiting https://www.mass.gov/info-details/covid-19-vaccine-distribution-timeline-phase-overview.

For those Home-based health care workers and Health care workers doing non-COVID-facing care (including office staff) will be eligible to get vaccinated at locations that are open to provide these vaccinations.

Vaccine locations for those currently eligible can be found by visiting here https://www.mass.gov/info-details/covid-19-vaccine-locations-for-individuals-currently-eligible-to-be-vaccinated.

Note: The vaccination clinic location map will be frequently updated. Please check back often for updates as we move into Phase TWO and additional groups of people become eligible.

20 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since January 19, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,135. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19.

The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are:

😷Wear a mask.

👏Wash your hands.

↔️Keep your distance.

🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces.

🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results.

👨‍🔬Get tested.

Positive COVID-19 case reports will be updated each weekday. Weekend updates will be included in the Monday report. Click the link below for the press release.

COVID-19 VACCINATION INFORMATION FOR PHASE TWO: The Town of Shrewsbury would like to acknowledge all of the anxiety, stress, and fear that the COVID-19 pandemic has caused for all of our residents and business owners. We realize how difficult this has been and continues to be for you. Please be assured that the Town of Shrewsbury has been and will continue to push out information as soon it becomes available. At the end of this communication, please see the various methods in which the Town disseminates information.

The Town of Shrewsbury is working with the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH) on the COVID-19 vaccine roll out process. MDPH is the state agency that determines when vaccines will become available to different segments of the public and how it will be made available to these groups. This plan, with timelines for arrival of the vaccine can be found on the MDPH website at: https://www.mass.gov/covid-19-vaccine-in-massachusetts. Please note that this website is updated on Tuesdays and Thursdays of each week.

The Town does not have the ability to purchase additional vaccines or expedite the process. The phased approach, which is being followed across the State, has been developed by medical and health professionals at the MPDH to best deliver the vaccine in a coordinated effort across the Commonwealth.

Please be sure to wear a mask whenever outside of your home, wash your hands frequently, avoid gatherings, and continue to take precautions as we continue to battle the COVID-19 virus.

Click the link below for more info.

16 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since January 18, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,115. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19.

The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are:

😷Wear a mask.

👏Wash your hands.

↔️Keep your distance.

🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces.

🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results.

👨‍🔬Get tested.

Positive COVID-19 case reports will be updated each weekday. Weekend updates will be included in the Monday report. Click the link below for the press release.

56 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since January 15, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,099. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are: 😷Wear a mask. 👏Wash your hands. ↔️Keep your distance. 🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces. 🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results. 👨‍🔬Get tested. Positive COVID-19 case reports will be updated each weekday. Weekend updates will be included in the Monday report. Click the link below for the press release.

35 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since January 14, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,043. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are: 😷Wear a mask. 👏Wash your hands. ↔️Keep your distance. 🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces. 🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results. 👨‍🔬Get tested. Positive COVID-19 case reports will be updated each weekday. Weekend updates will be included in the Monday report. Click the link below for the press release.

41 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since January 13, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 2,008. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are: 😷Wear a mask. 👏Wash your hands. ↔️Keep your distance. 🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces. 🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results. 👨‍🔬Get tested. Positive COVID-19 case reports will be updated each weekday. Weekend updates will be included in the Monday report. Click the link below for the press release.

The Baker-Polito Administration outlined plans to start vaccines for congregate care settings, the next priority group within Phase One of the Commonwealth’s COVID-19 vaccine distribution plan.

The Command Center also made updates to the first priority group in Phase Two of the distribution plan to include residents and staff of low income and affordable senior housing.

16 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since January 12, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 1,967. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are: 😷Wear a mask. 👏Wash your hands. ↔️Keep your distance. 🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces. 🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results. 👨‍🔬Get tested. Positive COVID-19 case reports will be updated each weekday. Weekend updates will be included in the Monday report. Click the link below for the press release.

44 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since January 11, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 1,951. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19.

The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are:

😷Wear a mask.

👏Wash your hands.

↔️Keep your distance.

🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces.

🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results.

👨‍🔬Get tested.



Positive COVID-19 case reports will be updated each weekday. Weekend updates will be included in the Monday report. Click the link below for the press release.

56 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since January 8, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 1,907. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19.

The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are:

😷Wear a mask.

👏Wash your hands.

↔️Keep your distance.

🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces.

🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results.

👨‍🔬Get tested.



Positive COVID-19 case reports will be updated each weekday. Weekend updates will be included in the Monday report. Click the link below for the press release.

55 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since January 7, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 1,851. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are: 😷Wear a mask. 👏Wash your hands. ↔️Keep your distance. 🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces. 🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results. 👨‍🔬Get tested. Positive COVID-19 case reports will be updated each weekday. Weekend updates will be included in the Monday report. Click the link below for the press release.

49 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since January 6,2021 bringing the cumulative total to 1,796. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19.

The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are:

😷Wear a mask.

👏Wash your hands.

↔️Keep your distance.

🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces.

🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results.

👨‍🔬Get tested.


Positive COVID-19 case reports will be updated each weekday. Weekend updates will be included in the Monday report. Click the link below for the press release.

Baker-Polito Administration Announces Extension of Capacity and Gathering Limits,
New Guidance for Hospital ICU Staffing, Elective Surgeries

Capacity Limits for Most Industries, Gathering Limits Extended Until at Least January 24, 2021

For Immediate Release: January 7, 2021

On January 7, 2021, the Baker-Polito Administration announced the extension of further restrictions and new hospital guidance to help stop the spread of COVID-19 in the Commonwealth.

Industry restrictions for capacity limits and reduced gathering limits went into effect on Saturday, December 26th, and will now be extended for at least two more weeks to January 24, 2021.

INDUSTRY RESTRICTIONS & GATHERING LIMITS
Capacity Limits: Under the current restrictions that are being extended today, most industries in Massachusetts remain subject to a 25% capacity limit:

Restaurants (based on permitted seating capacity)
Close Contact Personal Services
Theaters and Performance Venues
Casinos
Office Spaces
Places of Worship
Retail Businesses
Driving and Flight Schools
Golf Facilities (for indoor spaces)
Libraries
Lodging (for common areas)
Arcades and Indoor Recreation Businesses
Fitness Centers and Health Clubs
Museums, Cultural Facilities and Guided Tours
Workers and staff will not count towards the occupancy count for restaurants, places of worship, close contact personal services, and retail businesses.
All other rules and restrictions in each sector-specific guidance will continue to remain in effect.

GATHERINGS LIMIT:
The current gathering limits in place since December 26 are also being extended. Indoor gatherings will remain limited to 10 people. Outdoor gatherings will remain limited to 25 people outside. The gatherings limit applies to private homes, event venues and public spaces.

NEW HOSPITAL GUIDANCE:
Hospital Tier Escalation: The Department of Public Health’s hospital guidance, issued in early November, establishes a regional tiering system for hospitals to support continued collaboration among hospitals and sustain capacity. Since early December, all regions across the Commonwealth have been in Tier 3 status, which established a framework for greater coordination to balance patient load and ensure capacity.

Today, in response to the continued rise in hospitalizations, all regions across the state will be escalated to Tier 4 status. In Tier 4, the hospitals in each region will meet at least daily, and will continue to collaborate across regions where necessary, to address growing capacity constraints and continue to load balance as needed.

ICU Nurse Staffing Ratios: To support the health care system’s continued response to the surge in cases and hospitalizations, the Commonwealth is allowing the deployment of acute nursing staffing under certain circumstances. Starting today, hospitals with severe capacity constraints may request a temporary exemption from the mandated nurse-to-patient ratios in the ICU. This option will only be available to hospitals with capacity of less than 20% who first attest to DPH that they have suspended all nonessential elective invasive procedures, including those conducted in an outpatient setting under the hospital’s license. Additionally, hospitals must take every reasonable step to expand capacity prior to requesting a temporary exemption. If a hospital’s bed capacity increases, or if the hospital re-starts nonessential elective invasive procedures, the hospital must resume compliance with the ICU staffing requirements.

Update on Plans for COVID-19 Vaccinations: Three Phased Approach - Click the link below for details

30 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since January 5, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 1,747. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19.

The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are:

😷Wear a mask.

👏Wash your hands.

↔️Keep your distance.

🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces.

🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results.

👨‍🔬Get tested.



Positive COVID-19 case reports will be updated each weekday. Weekend updates will be included in the Monday report. Click the link below for the press release.

32 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since January 4, 2021 bringing the cumulative total to 1,717. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19.

The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are:

😷Wear a mask.

👏Wash your hands.

↔️Keep your distance.

🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces.

🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results.

👨‍🔬Get tested.



Positive COVID-19 case reports will be updated each weekday. Weekend updates will be included in the Monday report. Click the link below for the press release.

The Baker-Polito Administration launches new phase of #StateWithoutStigMA Campaign

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH) launched a new phase of the #StateWithoutStigMA public information campaign aimed at reducing the stigma of substance addiction that prevents people with substance use disorders from seeking treatment. The campaign launched at a time when the state is experiencing a slight rise in overdose deaths as it continues to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic.



“As we continue to fight COVID-19, we remain aware of the impact the pandemic has had on the recovery community and residents struggling with addiction,” said Governor Charlie Baker. “Building on the Commonwealth’s previous efforts to reduce the stigma around addiction, we are proud to launch the next phase of #StateWithoutStigMA to encourage people to seek the treatment they need and deserve, especially in these uniquely challenging times.”

111 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since December 31, 2020 bringing the cumulative total to 1,685. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19.

The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are:

😷Wear a mask.

👏Wash your hands.

↔️Keep your distance.

🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces.

🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results.

👨‍🔬Get tested.



Positive COVID-19 case reports will be updated each weekday. Weekend updates will be included in the Monday report. Click the link below for the press release.

40 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since December 30, 2020 bringing the cumulative total to 1,574. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19.

The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are:

😷Wear a mask.

👏Wash your hands.

↔️Keep your distance.

🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces.

🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results.

👨‍🔬Get tested.



Positive COVID-19 case reports will be updated each weekday. Weekend updates will be included in the Monday report. Click the link below for the press release.

​49 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since December 29,2020 bringing the cumulative total to 1,534. We are urging Shrewsbury residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of COVID-19.

The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread are:

😷Wear a mask.

👏Wash your hands.

↔️Keep your distance.

🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces.

🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results.

👨‍🔬Get tested.



Positive COVID-19 case reports will be updated each weekday. Weekend updates will be included in the Monday report. Click the link below for the press release. ​

20 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury bringing the total to 1,485. We are urging residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of the novel coronavirus. The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread remain the same: wearing masks or face coverings, personal hygiene, social distancing and staying home when possible. Please note cases will not be reported on New Years Day, January 1, 2021. Click the link for the press release.

84 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury since December 24, 2020 bringing the total to 1,465. We are urging residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of the novel coronavirus. The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread remain the same: wearing masks or face coverings, personal hygiene, social distancing and staying home when possible. Please note cases will not be reported on New Years Day, January 1, 2021. Click the link for the press release.

BOSTON – Today, the Baker-Polito Administration launched a $668 million program to provide financial assistance to Massachusetts small businesses impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The program in part relies on the pending federal COVID-19 relief bill recently passed by Congress. Regardless of the developments at the federal level, the Baker-Polito Administration will start releasing millions in new funding to restaurants, retailers, and other small businesses throughout the Commonwealth as soon as next week.



Earlier this week, the Administration announced nearly $49 million in grants through the Massachusetts Growth Capital Corporation (MGCC) COVID-19 Small Business Program to support over 1,158 small businesses. More than 10,000 applicants had sought relief in this grant round.



Additional grants will be made available to eligible small businesses through MGCC. The Small Business Grant Program was established in the fall, and currently has a pool of eligible applicants awaiting funding. This additional funding will allow the Administration to award more of those pending applicants. Eligible businesses that already applied to the program, but were not funded due to limited funds available, will be prioritized for funding first and do not need to reapply.



The funds will also be used to stand up an additional grant program at MGCC. This program will target the industries most hard-hit during the pandemic.



Eligible industries for the new program include:



Restaurants, bars, caterers


Indoor recreation and entertainment establishments


Gyms and fitness centers


Event-support professionals (photographers, videographers, etc.)


Personal services


Retail


The new business relief program would offer grants up to $75,000, but not more than three months’ operating expenses, to be used for employee wage and benefits costs, space-related costs, and debt service obligations.



The online application portal for the new program will open on Thursday, December 31, and will close on Friday, January 15. Awards are expected to be announced in early February.



More details on how to apply and eligibility requirements are available at www.empoweringsmallbusiness.org.

35 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury bringing the total to 1,381. We are urging residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of the novel coronavirus. The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread remain the same: wearing masks or face coverings, personal hygiene, social distancing and staying home when possible. Please note cases will not be reported on Christmas Day, December, 25, 2020 or New Years Day, January 1, 2021. Click the link for the press release.

22 additional positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Town of Shrewsbury bringing the total to 1,346. We are urging residents to consider their own responsibility to help reduce the spread of the novel coronavirus. The most effective ways to reduce your risk in contracting the virus and preventing the spread remain the same:

😷Wear a mask.

👏Wash your hands.

↔️Keep your distance.

🧴Clean & Disinfect frequently touched surfaces.

🏠Stay home if you are sick or a household member is sick or waiting for test results.

👨‍🔬Get tested.

Positive COVID-19 case reports will be updated each weekday. Weekend updates will be included in the Monday report. Click the link for the press release.

The MDPH Immunization Division had set the deadline of December 31, 2020 for students to receive a flu vaccination unless they have