As you may have seen in recent news, the state of Massachusetts has seen an uptick in COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations, and deaths over the last month or two. With the colder weather keeping folks indoors, it is much easier for the virus to spread from person to person.
You may have also heard about the new variant called Omicron which was first identified in continental Europe and Southern Africa and is now confirmed to be in the state of Massachusetts. While we still do not know very much about this new variant, initial data suggest it may be slightly more transmissible than the Delta variant.
Fenway Health is keeping a watchful eye on both rising cases and the new variant. We continue to follow CDC and state guidance to keep our patients and staff safe in the workplace.
While this is certainly not the news any of us want to hear, there are well-known, effective steps you can take to protect yourself, your coworkers, our patients and your loved ones:
- Regular hand hygiene and consistent mask-wearing while indoors or in crowded spaces.
- Stay 6 feet apart while you are unmasked eating or drinking.
- Get a complete COVID vaccine series with a booster vaccine! Early research evidence shows that getting a COVID-19 booster likely provides very effective protection against Omicron. You can get initial or booster vaccines at Fenway Health during your regular exams or by booking an appointment for our COVID-19 vaccine clinics. Learn more about getting vaccinated at Fenway Health here. You can schedule a vaccination appointment at our 1340 Boylston Vaccination Clinic by calling 617.927.6000.
- You can also use the state Vaxfinder Website to help find a convenient location to receive vaccines or booster shot.
- Stay home if you are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms or have recently tested positive for COVID-19.
We will continue to monitor statewide COVID-19 numbers and Omicron information as it becomes available and provide updates to help keep our community safe.