Here is the COVID update for Wednesday, January 19. Please also check somervillema.gov/covid19 for more information and resources.  

First, the numbers and a brief message: Somerville saw 2,357 positive COVID-19 tests in December, more than double the previous monthly record of 1,138 in December 2020. This is part of a national surge in cases fueled mainly by the Omicron variant. Hospitals across the region are hitting capacity and canceling surgeries, including some that are not considered elective. While Omicron can result in milder infection, especially for those who are both vaccinated and boosted, please remember that this variant spreads so easily that it finds its way to the people it can hurt the most, such as the elderly, the immunocompromised, and the unvaccinated.

The most critical thing right now is to work collectively to flatten the curve so that people who need treatment for COVID and for other conditions can receive the care they need. Based on data, there is some hope that the Omicron variant will have an intense but short duration. All of the things we have done in previous surges (wearing masks in public spaces, limiting indoor interactions, isolating if you experience COVID-19 symptoms) will help save lives and protect our hospitals. Thank you, Somerville. Still #InThisTogether

NEWS:

Mayor Ballantyne announces new COVID testing site: This week, the City opened a walk-through testing site for Somerville residents and workers at the International Church of the Grace of God in East Somerville (via the parking lot in the rear of the church at 72 Franklin St., across from Glen Park). The site will offer 500 PCR tests per day, three days per week, through mid-February (or longer if needed). No appointment required. Testing is free, regardless of insurance or immigration status. The first hour of each day is Senior+ Hour, reserved for seniors 65 and over, persons with disabilities, or others with barriers to access. The next dates are: 

• Friday 1/21: 1-7 p.m. (1-2 p.m. is Senior+ Hour) 
• Saturday 1/22: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. (10-11 a.m. is Senior+ Hour). 
• For more dates and times, visit somervillema.gov/covidtesting.  

City announces new vaccine clinics: The City is hosting Moderna booster clinics for those age 18+ on January 19 and 26 and February 2, 9, and 16 from 12:30 to 3 p.m. at the City Hall Annex, 50 Evergreen Ave. Go to somervillema.gov/covidvaccine (click on the City Vaccination Clinics tab) for more details and to register. 

Biden begins distribution of 1 billion at-home test kits: Go to covidtests.gov to request up to four free rapid antigen test kits. Tests should also be available at local pharmacies and community centers soon. The City is also working to obtain more at-home tests for persons with barriers to access. 

Board of Health reviewing proof of vaccine requirements for local businesses: The Somerville Board of Health is reviewing an order to require all restaurants, fitness centers, and entertainment venues to require proof of vaccination to gain entry to those establishments. The Board is scheduled to vote on the matter on January 20. If passed, Somerville could be joining neighboring municipalities such as Boston, Cambridge, and Arlington in requiring proof of vaccination.

CDC updates mask guidance: High-filtration masks such as KN95 and N95 masks are helpful for protecting against COVID-19. They have stronger filters than typical cloth masks. Visit CDC.gov/masks for a complete guide to using masks to protect against COVID-19. The City is distributing KN95 masks to residents connected to social services through the City and schools. The Biden administration announced they will be distributing 400 million N95s soon. 

State establishes paid sick-leave program: Massachusetts has established a temporary program requiring employers make paid leave time available for employees impacted by COVID or who have side effects from vaccination. Learn more. 

RESOURCES:

• Get Tested: If you’re experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 or were exposed to someone with COVID-19, you should get tested. Find a testing site near you or where to get an at-home test kit at somervillema.gov/covidtesting.
• If You Test Positive: The CDC advises to isolate for at least five days. Read the full guidance.
• Get Vaccinated & Boosted: Vaccinations are our best defense against severe illness, hospitalization, and death from COVID-19. But protection does wane over time, which is why getting a booster is so important. The Omicron variant has also been shown to evade immunity from prior infection. Keep your immune defenses strong by getting up to date on your vaccines, including a booster. Boosters are recommended for everyone age 12+. Learn more at somervillema.gov/covidvaccine.
  • Somerville CHA Vaccine Center, Target shopping plaza, Union Square
    • Moderna and Pfizer boosters and initial vaccines for ages 5+.
    • Walk-ins are now accepted based on availability. It’s still best to pre-register here to be sure they are holding a spot for you.
  • City Booster Clinics, City Hall Annex, 50 Evergreen Ave.
    • Moderna booster clinics for ages 18+
    • January 26, 12:30 – 3 p.m.
    • February 2, 9, and 16, 12:30 – 3 p.m.
    • Register at somervillema.gov/covidvaccine (go to the City Vaccination Clinics tab)
  • Other local sites: Go to vaxfinder.mass.gov or call 211.
  • Transportation Assistance: If you are unable to access a COVID-19 vaccine due to transportation challenges but otherwise are able to leave your home, please call 311 (617-666-3311) to get connected to transportation assistance.

Other city news and events:

• Affordable homeownership opportunity in Assembly Row
• Mayor Ballantyne announces inclusive, equity-focused 100-day agenda
• Apply to be a Reimagining Policing Community Engagement Ambassador or Youth Racial & Social Justice League Member
• Watch Mayor Ballantyne’s virtual inauguration
• Somerville recognized as one of 95 global climate action leaders
• Be prepared for snow by reviewing the City’s Winter Guide (parking, shoveling & snow emergency rules in one handy link)

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 Adrienne Pomeroy at 617-625-6600 x 2059 or ADA@somervillema.gov.

-City of Somerville