Here is the COVID-19 update for Thursday, September 16. Please also check somervillema.gov/covid19 for information and resources that are updated frequently.  

Eviction moratorium extended until April 30, 2022: The Somerville Board of Health has extended the citywide residential eviction moratorium until April 30 of next year. The moratorium applies to both renters and homeowners, and it means residents cannot be physically removed from their homes, though eviction cases may proceed through court. REMINDER: back rent ultimately must be paid. If you find yourself or anyone you know unable to make rent or mortgage payments (or if you are a landlord owed back rent), assistance may be available. Immediately contact our Office of Housing Stability at 617-625-6600 x2581 or the Community Action Agency of Somerville at 617-623-7370.

Federal vaccination mandate: Last week President Biden issued a sweeping set of vaccination requirements that will apply to many people here in Somerville. It encompasses those who work at companies that employ 100+ people, federal government employees and contractors, and more than 17 million healthcare workers. It also calls on large entertainment venues to require proof of vaccination for entry and requires employers to offer paid time off for workers to get vaccinated.

Somerville requires COVID vaccinations for City employees: All City of Somerville employees must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 as of November 1, 2021. The City joins municipalities, states, and employers across the nation, including the U.S. military, that are taking this preventive step to help contain the spread of the virus. 

Positive COVID cases in Somerville are rising: The number of confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Somerville has risen from 32 in June to 147 in July to 328 in August. See the latest Somerville case data at somervillema.gov/covid19dashboard.

Upcoming vaccine clinics: Two Pfizer vaccine clinics open to all people age 12+ will be held at the locations below. The vaccines are free, regardless of immigration status or health insurance. Identification is not required. The CHA vaccine site at 176 Somerville Ave. (next to Target in Union Square) and many local pharmacies also offer walk-in vaccinations. To find out more about these three clinics and where else you can get vaccinated, visit somervillema.gov/vaccine. If you’re not vaccinated, make a plan today to get your shot. 

• Friday, September 24: West Somerville Neighborhood School, 177 Powder House Blvd., 3-5 p.m. 
• Monday, October 18: City Hall Annex, 50 Evergreen Ave., 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. 

At-home vaccinations available: Massachusetts offers in-home vaccinations for anyone who can’t travel to a vaccination location. To learn more and sign up for an in-home vaccination, call (833) 983-0485.

Need a COVID test?: Go to somervillema.gov/covid19testing to find a testing location. 

Sign up for the free weekly City eNewsletter: There’s always a lot going on in Somerville that has nothing to do with COVID-19 and one of the best ways to stay on top of it is by getting our weekly e-news update. You’ll get updates on events, meetings, surveys, volunteer opportunities, job openings, affordable housing offerings, and more. Sign up at somervillema.gov/newsletter.

Persons with disabilities who need auxiliary aids and services for effective communication (i.e., CART, ASL), written materials in alternative formats, or reasonable modifications in policies and procedures in order to access the programs, activities, and meetings of the City of Somerville should please contact Nancy Bacci at 617-625-6600 x 2250 or nbacci@somervillema.gov.

— City of Somerville