Reading Receives Sparse Vaccine Supply From State

READING, MA — Reading's efforts to prepare large-scale vaccine clinics at a local level have been shelved, as the state's revised approach means the town will only receive a maximum of 100 doses per week, Town Manager Bob LeLacheur said.

LeLacheur said at that rate, the town would be vaccinating residents 75 and older into next fall, not even taking into account the other 20,000+ residents.

"I raised this point on a state-wide call on Tuesday, and the same frustration is happening everywhere," LeLacheur said.

Last week, the state changed its approach to vaccinations, prioritizing state-run sites and online sign ups. Gov. Baker said the uncertainty of vaccination supply is a national issue and believes there will be more guidance from the federal government this week.

As of Thursday, Reading had just 20 doses of the vaccine, with another 50 on the way. The town has reached out to vulnerable residents to provide computer assistance and medical rides. Officials are also considering delivering services to home bound residents.

Visit https://www.maimmunizations.org for up-to-date information from the state or https://www.maimmunizations.org/clinic/search for a map of clinic locations.