Local News

VCIL launches statewide in-home vaccine service 

 

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.

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