Vaccination Push Plans Continue Locally As State-Run Sites Prepare To Close
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By Tim Callery
MANCHESTER, N.H.
More than 50% of New Hampshire’s population has been fully vaccinated against COVID-19 according to officials. But, local health networks are hoping that number continues to grow.
There were 196 active cases of COVID-19 in New Hampshire reported on Monday, the lowest number since March 2020. Health officials said they have confirmed 54 new cases since Friday and there were 18 people hospitalized.
State-run vaccine sites are now only offering second-dose shots. So, cities and towns along with local health care networks have brought vaccines to public areas hoping to reach people who still need their first dose.
On Monday, state officials reported that 53% of Granite Staters are fully vaccinated, and the push has continued to reach as many people as possible.
“People can’t always get to a fixed site or can’t get somewhere because of numerous variables such as transportation, or lack of access to internet to sign up. Sometimes reading challenges, things of that nature,” said Ashley Desrochers, of the Strafford County COVID-19 incident management team.
Desrochers is the public health program manager for the Strafford County public health network. Since COVID-19 doses became available, the network has vaccinated more than 30,000 people through events such as drive-thru clinics at area schools.
“Bringing resources to people because of barriers we know exist,” she said.
The Strafford County public health network continues to host several mobile vaccine clinics per week. No registration is necessary and all three brands of COVID-19 vaccine are available.
“They can just show up and ask us questions and get any type of vaccine,” Desrochers said.
She said the network is also aiming to provide vaccines to local workplaces now that more people are returning to the office.
“Sometimes people work three jobs just to support their families,” she said. “So, they don’t even have time to go get a vaccine.”
State-run vaccine sites will permanently close on June 30.