Milford Health Department Urges Vaccines, Vigilance As Cases Rise

Press release from the Milford Health Department:

Aug. 4, 2021

As new cases of COVID-19 rise at an accelerating rate and the Delta variant makes headway in Connecticut, the Milford Health Department is reminding the community to stay vigilant and follow guidance critical to preventing the spread of COVID-19.

“The increase in cases with the Delta variant circulating at this time is concerning and should be a reminder to everyone that we cannot become complacent,” said Deepa Joseph, Director of Health of the Milford Health Department. “Getting vaccinated remains our greatest tool to protect yourself and those around you from COVID 19. Everyone needs to be diligent in following the strategies that we know are effective in our fight to end this pandemic, including wearing a mask in indoor public places due to substantial COVID transmission in New Haven County."

While the latest scientific data regarding the Delta variant shows that some vaccinated individuals may become infected, the risk of becoming infected with & transmitting COVID-19 to others is much greater for those who remain unvaccinated. Additionally, the majority of COVID-19 related hospitalizations and deaths at this time are among those who are not vaccinated. The Milford Health Department, in partnership with Milford Public Schools & the CT Department of Public Health, has coordinated a COVID-19 vaccination clinic to be held this Wednesday, August 4th from 3pm-7pm at East Shore Middle School, 240 Chapel St. Residents who are 12 years of age or older and have not been vaccinated yet are encouraged to get vaccinated at this upcoming clinic, particularly as we prepare for students to head back to school in a few weeks.

“Milford schools, businesses, and event organizers have done an excellent job implementing protocols to stay safe. To avoid a significant increase in cases, we must all consider the ways in which we can stay healthy and keep our community safe," said Mayor Benjamin Blake. “Let's all work together, get vaccinated and do our part to keep Milford healthy.”

In addition to getting vaccinated, the Milford Health Department strongly encourages residents to use the following tools at our disposal:

As New Haven County now has substantial COVID transmission, everyone is strongly encouraged to wear a mask in indoor public place regardless of vaccination status. Masks have been and will continue to be required for entry into municipal buildings. In addition, the Milford Health Department recommends wearing a mask in crowded outdoor settings. If you or a household member are experiencing symptoms, do not go to work, school, camp, or other
activities. Contact your medical provider and get tested for COVID-19.

• Maintain social distance by staying 6 feet apart from individuals outside of your household.

• Wash your hands frequently. For additional information about upcoming vaccination clinics and COVID-19 information, please visit theState of CT COVID-19 Portal or the Milford Health Department COVID-19 site.

This press release was produced by the Milford Health Department. The views expressed here are the author's own.