The Vermont Center for Independent Living (VCIL) announced the launch of a statewide, in-home vaccine service for people of all ages.
“Covid-19 and flu are still dangerous health risks, especially for people with disabilities and older adults”, said Sarah Launderville, VCIL executive director. “These communities were reaching out and telling us that they felt forgotten, and we knew we needed to respond.”
Made possible by the U.S. Administration for Community Living with a grant through USAging, in-home vaccinations are available for anyone who has difficulty getting to or using traditional vaccination locations.
“Every day for the past month we’ve heard from individuals and families desperate to get vaccinated, but unable to due to lack of accessible options,” said Kate Larose, VCIL’s pandemic equity coordinator. “Pharmacies and primary care providers are refusing to provide reasonable accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act, there are transportation barriers, and the health equity focus our Agency of Human Services heralded at the start of the pandemic has long since fallen by the wayside.”
This service is free of charge to anyone in Vermont, no insurance information will be collected, and in-home vaccinators will wear masks. Entire households—including children, caregivers and friends—can be vaccinated at once.
Newly updated Covid-19 and flu vaccines offer better protection against currently circulating strains, just in time for the upcoming holiday season when people are spending more time together indoors.
“We know that both initial and repeat Covid infections can lead to long Covid in people of all ages,” said Krista Coombs, long Covid advocate with VCIL. “Even when infections are asymptomatic or mild. Reducing the number of infections is critical. And staying up to date on vaccinations can help mitigate these risks, and reduce the likelihood of severe illness and hospitalization.”
People wishing to learn more about this service as well as upcoming drive through clinics can visit: vcil.org/vaccines. Households ready to schedule an in-home vaccine can call (802) 830-4137 Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5p.m.
