HARTFORD, Conn. (WTIC Radio)_ Now that a U.S. advisory panel has endorsed widespread use of Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine, Connecticut, like the rest of the country, is ready for the start of an epic vaccination campaign.
Governor Ned Lamont, during his afternoon briefing on Thursday, said Connecticut is ready for the first shipment of Pfizer's vaccine on Monday or Tuesday of next week. Although the panel has endorsed the vaccine, the F.D.A. has to give its final approval - which is expected in the next few days.
Under Phase 1A vaccination in Connecticut, healthcare workers and long-term care residents will be eligible to receive the shots. Starting late January, the state expects to move into Phase 1B, which would see the vaccination of other critical groups, like essential workers and those over 65 as well as those under 65 with pre-existing conditions. Phase 2 would make the shots available to everyone else, including children under the age of 18, but is not expected until June in Connecticut.
On Thursday, Connecticut reported a 6.63% test positivity, with around 2,431 cases out of 36,659 total tests. Hospitalizations have dropped by 48 people, to 1,214 total. Deaths climbed by 42 people in the last day, pushing the toll to 5,327.