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BLOG
| CLICK HERE FOR COVID-19 VACCINE SITE INFORMATION IN THE CITY OF BOSTON
OVERVIEW:
The Coronavirus Disease 2019 or COVID-19 (formerly referred to as 2019 Novel Coronavirus or 2019-nCoV) is a new respiratory virus that was first identified in Wuhan, China in December of 2019. The City of Boston and BPHC have extended the public health emergency declaration until further notice.
Boston's Latest Numbers (As of March 3, 2021): (Updated Monday-Friday)
59,148 confirmed cases 55,526 recovered 1,277 deaths
Boston Race/Ethnicity Case Data: (Updated Monday-Friday)
Race/Ethnicity | Known Cases | Percentage of Known Cases | Asian/PI | 3,105
| 6%
| Black/African-American | 12,959 | 24% | Latinx/Hispanic | 16,253 | 30%
| Other | 3,527 | 7% | White | 17,476 | 33%
| Total Race/Ethnicity Identified Cases in Boston | 53,320 | 90.1% of total cases in Boston have known Race/Ethnicity data | Total Cases in Boston | 59,148 |
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Boston Race/Ethnicity Death Data: (Updated Monday-Friday)
Race/Ethnicity | Deaths | Percentage of Known Deaths | Asian/PI | 98 | 8% | Black/African-American | 414 | 32% | Latinx/Hispanic | 158 | 12% | Other | 42 | 3% | White | 563 | 44% | Total Race/Ethnicity Identified Deaths in Boston | 1,275
| 99.8% of total deaths in Boston have known Race/Ethnicity data | Total Deaths in Boston | 1,277
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Although complete data on race and ethnicity among COVID-19 positive cases in Boston residents has not been reported to the City of Boston, the Boston Public Health Commission (BPHC) is actively working to collect available data for public release.
NOTE: Information on race and ethnicity data is collected and reported by multiple entities and may or may not reflect self-reporting by the individual case. A classification of "missing" indicates that no reporter knew the race and ethnicity of the individual, the individual refused to provide the information, or that the originating reporting system does not capture the information. "Other" indicates multiple races or another race that is not listed above.
Click HERE for the latest COVID-19 Core Metrics: 03-02-2021 These are the core metrics critical to inform response leadership. BPHC and the City of Boston use this data to monitor the progress of the City's response, to guide decision making and to shape our response moving forward during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Click here for archived COVID-19 Metrics reports. The next update will be 03-06-2021.
All Boston Testing Data - Cumulative Community Positivity
The "Cumulative Community Positivity" calculation counts each individual person one time (their first negative, their
first positive), regardless of the number of times an individual is tested, to assess the level of COVID-19 infection in the City and neighborhoods since the start of the pandemic. College ordered testing included. (As of February 25, 2021). The next update will be 03-06-2021.
NEIGHBORHOOD | NUMBER TESTED | OF TESTED, CUMULATIVE % POSITIVE | TESTING RATE PER 100,000 RESIDENTS
| East Boston - 02128
| 35,691 | 18.9% | 76,056.4 | Dorchester - 02122, 02124
| 47,983 | 17.4% | 59,326.2 | Hyde Park - 02136
| 22,821 | 16.9% | 66,683.2 |
Dorchester - 02121, 02125
| 43,885 | 16.4% | 68,274.8 |
Mattapan - 02126
| 15,534 | 15.3% | 52,495.7 | Roslindale - 02131 | 21,704 | 13.9% | 64,268.2 | South Boston - 02127, 02210
| 33,067 | 11.5% | 82,473.7
| West Roxbury - 02132
| 17,973 | 11.4% | 63,091.9 | Roxbury - 02119, 02120
| 40,280 | 11.2% | 93,398.6
| South End - 02111, 02118
| 34,554
| 8.4%
| 96,638.3
| Charlestown - 02129
| 13,557 | 8.0% | 69,831.0 | Jamaica Plain - 02130
| 33,413 | 7.6% | 82,752.6 | Allston/Brighton - 02163, 02134, 02135
| 57,446 | 7.3% | 86,274.7 | Back Bay, Beacon Hill, West End, Downtown, & North End - 02108, 02114, 02116, 02199, 02222, 02109, 02110, 02113
| 45,881 | 6.1% | 82,337.6 | Fenway - 02115, 02215
| 76,907 | 3.3%
| 140,528.4 | Boston | 567,816 | 10.4% | 83,574.5 |
*N/A = Unable to calculate due to small counts (N<5)
Neighborhood Testing Data - Current Community Positivity
The "Current Community Positivity" calculation counts each individual person one time within 7 days to better
assess the current level of COVID-19 infection in the City and neighborhoods. Excludes college-ordered testing. (February 19-25). The next update will be 03-06-21.
NEIGHBORHOOD | NUMBER TESTED | POSITIVE TESTS
| % POSITIVE
| Dorchester - 02122, 02124 | 2.243
| 131 | 5.8% | Dorchester - 02121, 02125
| 2,848 | 161 | 5.7% | Mattapan - 02126
| 1,007
| 53 | 5.3% | Roslindale - 02131
| 1,489
| 74 | 5.0% |
Roxbury - 02119, 02120
| 1,508
| 70 | 4.6%
|
Hyde Park - 02136 | 1,629
| 63 | 3.9% | East Boston - 02128
| 1,847 | 68 | 3.7% |
South Boston - 02127, 02210 | 2,280
| 79 | 3.5% |
West Roxbury - 02132
| 1,311
| 42 | 3.2%
| South End - 02111, 02118
| 1,867
| 49
| 2.6% | Fenway - 02115, 02215
| 1,046
| 23 | 2.2% | Jamaica Plain - 02130
| 2,288 | 44 | 1.9%
| Back Bay, Beacon Hill, West End, Downtown, & North End - 02108, 02114, 02116, 02199, 02222, 02109, 02110, 02113
| 2,972 | 56 | 1.9% | Allston/Brighton - 02163, 02134, 02135
| 2,749 | 44 | 1.6% | Charlestown - 02129
| 1,047
| 14 | 1.3% | Boston | 28,926 | 1,008 | 3.5% |
*N/A = Unable to calculate due to small counts (N<5) |
Click here for the BPHC 02-25-2021 Weekly COVID-19 Report
Number of deaths at long-term care facilities: 494 (Updated weekly: 03-01-2021)
ABOUT OUR RESPONSE:
Since January, BPHC and Boston EMS have taken extensive steps to prepare for a potential outbreak of COVID-19.
BPHC is engaging in daily communications with the CDC, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH), City of Boston departments and other community partners to make sure we have the latest information on guidance, best practices and recommendations. BPHC will provide updated information on this website and on our social media channels as it becomes available.
We are confident the City of Boston continues to be ready for a safe and effective response as the situation develops.
HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT COVID-19? Visit the BPHC Main COVID-19 Page Call 311 or 211
Call the Mayor's Healthline: 617-534-5050 or Toll-Free: 1-800-847-0710
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| Friday, February 26, 2021 - Mayor Martin J.
Walsh, Chief of Health and Human Services Marty Martinez, and the City of
Boston today announced, effective Monday, March 1, Boston will move with the
Commonwealth into Phase 3, Step 2 of the state's reopening plan, with the
following exceptions:
Indoor performance venues and indoor recreational activities with greater potential for contact will remain closed until March 22. In
Boston, the City will not allow live musical performances in restaurants
until March 22.
"Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, Boston has
taken a cautious approach to reopening," said Mayor Walsh. "We've
prioritized the health and safety of our residents, and we've made decisions
based on the latest public health data and metrics. We've only moved forward
when it's safe. Throughout the pandemic, the City of Boston has made decisions
that protect our public health, while recognizing the economic impact of this
public health emergency. I want to thank our residents and businesses for their
continued cooperation throughout the reopening process." The Commonwealth of Massachusetts will move to Step 2 of Phase 3 of the state's reopening plan on Monday, March 1: Indoor performance venues (such as concert halls, theaters, and other indoor performance spaces) can open at 50% capacity, with a 500-person max. (*Please note: This does not apply in Boston until March 22.) Indoor
recreational activities with greater potential for contact (laser tag,
roller skating, trampolines, obstacle courses) will open at 50%
capacity. (*Please
note: This does not apply in Boston until March 22.) A number of
industries will increase to 50% capacity. Restaurants
will no longer be subject to a seated capacity limit. However, there must
be six feet between tables. No more than 6 people per table will be
allowed, and the 90-minute time limit on tables stays in place. (*Please note: In Boston, the City
will not allow live musical performances in restaurants until March 22.) Food courts
remain closed.
The state also announced its plan to transition to Step 1 of Phase 4 on Monday, March 22, provided public health metrics continue to improve. The City of Boston will continue evaluating public health and data leading up to this date to determine next steps in Boston's reopening plan. If public health data supports continued reopening, the City of Boston is prepared to align with the Commonwealth's plan to move into Step 1 of Phase 4 on Monday, March 22. Additional information is available on the Commonwealth's website. Additional information about reopening in Boston is available on boston.gov. ###
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| Saturday, February 20, 2021 – Today the City of Boston partnered with the Massachusetts Association for the Blind, Visually Impaired (MABVI) to arrange for older adults with vision loss to receive the COVID-19 vaccine at the Reggie Lewis Track and Athletic Center in Roxbury. Fourteen individuals were vaccinated this afternoon through the coordinated effort by MABVI, the Boston Public Health Commission (BPHC), City of Boston’s Age Strong Commission and the Commission for Persons with Disabilities. Boston is working with the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to vaccinate residents against COVID-19. Following the State's lead, the City is working to create equitable access to the COVID-19 vaccine across all populations and neighborhoods in the city. “We need to break down barriers that may prevent some individuals from getting vaccinated. I’m grateful for the partnership with MABVI to make today’s appointments happen as we work to ensure that all Bostonians have access to the vaccine when they’re eligible,” said Chief of Health and Human Services, Marty Martinez. After targeted outreach to schedule appointments, individuals were greeted at the door of the Reggie Lewis Center and guided by a trained volunteer who provided language and accessibility support through the entire vaccination process. In advance of today’s vaccination session, MABVI provided training for clinic staff to create a safe, welcoming space for everyone. “We are very grateful to the City for their commitment to ensuring access to the site. Breaking down the transportation barrier for our participants who have faced challenges finding rides and guides to assist them is critical, especially during this time of social isolation and distancing,” said Kyle Robidoux, Director of Volunteer Services & Community Planning for MABVI. "Mayor Walsh's priority is to ensure that all eligible residents with disabilities have access to the vaccine," said Boston Disability Commissioner Kristen McCosh. "Partnering with trusted disability agencies such as MABVI is crucial to this effort." Under state guidance, vaccines are now available to adults 65+ and individuals with two or more certain medical conditions. For more information on when and where you will be eligible to receive the vaccine, visit Mass.gov/COVIDvaccine. To find a vaccination site in the City of Boston, visit boston.gov/COVID19vaccine. Individuals aged 65 and older who do not have internet access, or who are having trouble navigating the site, are encouraged to call 3-1-1 to get connected to the City's Age Strong Commission. They can help answer questions and navigate the options available. Residents outside of Boston can call 2-1-1, the Mass Vaccine Scheduling Resource line. Translators are available to assist.
About the Massachusetts Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired: Founded in 1903, Massachusetts Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired is one of the oldest social service organizations in the country supporting adults and seniors who are blind or low vision. A division of MAB Community Services, Inc., MABVI is a leading provider of integrated medical, social, and rehabilitation services for adults and seniors with vision loss. MABVI empowers individuals and offers them the tools they need to accomplish their goals by helping to remove barriers and increasing access to services. MABVI partners with numerous medical, elder services, and community agencies to create high-impact, cost-effective services for over 1500 for blind and low vision people across the Commonwealth. About the Boston Public Health Commission: The Boston Public Health Commission, one of the country's oldest health departments, is an independent public agency providing a wide range of health services and programs. It is governed by a seven-member board of health appointed by the Mayor of Boston. Public service and access to quality health care are the cornerstones of our mission - to protect, preserve and promote the health and well-being of all Boston residents, particularly those who are most vulnerable. The Commission's more than 40 programs are grouped into six bureaus: Emergency Medical Services; Child Adolescent & Family Health; Community Health Initiatives; Homeless Services; Infectious Disease; and Recovery Services. About the Age Strong Commission: The Age Strong Commission works towards making Boston a city that fully embraces aging. Our mission is to enhance the lives of people 55+ with meaningful programs, resources, and connections so we can live and age strong together in Boston. For more than 50 years, we have served constituents as a City department, Council on Aging, and Area Agency on Aging. In 2017, the Commission launched its Age-Friendly Action Plan, which is the City's blueprint to make Boston the best city to live and age in.
About the City of Boston Commission for Persons with Disabilities: The Commission for Persons with Disabilities facilitates full and equal participation in all aspects of life by persons with disabilities in the City of Boston. The Commission strives to reduce architectural, procedural, attitudinal, and communication barriers that affect persons with disabilities. The Commission coordinates and monitors the City’s compliance with federal, state, and city civil rights laws for persons with disabilities. ### |
| Friday, February 12, 2021 - Building on a
commitment to promote diversity and inclusion among the ranks of Boston
Emergency Medical Services (EMS), Mayor Martin J. Walsh and Boston EMS Chief
James Hooley today announced new paramedic certification scholarships for
current EMS members. Coordinated through the United Coalition of EMS Providers
(UCEP), a Boston EMS affinity group dedicated to advancing equity, inclusion
and diversity at all ranks, and in partnership with both the Mayor's Office of
Workforce Development (OWD) and Bunker Hill Community College (BHCC), 16
emergency medical technicians are now beginning their coursework at Bunker Hill
Community College to become certified paramedics. This program is designed to
expand the diversity of Boston EMS members holding a paramedic certification. "Boston is a diverse city, and it's crucial that our public safety services in Boston, including our paramedics, reflect our neighborhoods, and our values," said Mayor Walsh. "I'm proud that with this scholarship, we will continue to support diversity at Boston EMS, and care for all those who call Boston home." Boston EMS paramedics staff five frontline ambulances, providing advanced life-saving care during medical emergencies across the city. Paramedics are state-certified EMTs who hold an additional certification, expanding their scope of practice to include complex procedures, such as intubations and starting an IV. Boston EMS members promoted to the rank of paramedic earn approximately 36 percent more than an EMT. "I am very proud of what UCEP was able to accomplish in just five short months, securing Mayoral support and funding, as well as coordinating directly with Bunker Hill Community College; increasing the diversity of our paramedics will result in a direct benefit inpatient care," said Boston EMS Chief of Department, Jim Hooley. The professional development and advancement of Boston EMS members have been ongoing department priorities. Boston EMS has worked with multiple paramedic training programs and colleges to reduce barriers for all interested personnel to advance their education. Boston EMS has maintained a longstanding commitment to hiring candidates that reflect the racial, ethnic and linguistic diversity of Boston's neighborhoods. While 40 percent of personnel hired in the last three years are women and 36 percent identify as Asian, Black or African American, Latinx or more than two races, personnel holding the rank of paramedic just are 6 percent persons of color and 19 percent women. The paramedic certification, which can cost over $10,000 to secure, can be cost-prohibitive for members, making it difficult to build diversity at this rank. "The Boston EMS members selected for the paramedic UCEP scholarship are 75 percent women (12 of 16), 37 percent bilingual (6), and 94 percent (15) people of color. Eligibility for selection included UCEP membership, open to all members of Boston EMS, and a commitment to promoting equity and inclusion," said Deputy Lee Alexander, who leads Diversity, Recruitment and Engagement for the department and is a board member of United Coalition of EMS Providers. In the wake of George Floyd's murder and the events of 2020, members of Boston EMS hosted a listening session for personnel to talk about their own experiences with racial discrimination in the spring of 2020. "United Coalition of EMS Providers was formed from these listening sessions, dedicated to promoting diversity and inclusion within the City of Boston's municipal ambulance service," said EMT Roger Hamlet, President and Founder of United Coalition of EMS Providers. Under Mayor Walsh's leadership, the Office of Workforce Development (OWD) worked closely with UCEP and successfully secured grant funding through Neighborhood Jobs Trust for financially eligible personnel. UCEP secured an additional $20,000 contribution from SkillWorks, a nationally recognized workforce development funders' collaborative co-lead by the Boston Foundation and the City of Boston's Office of Workforce Development. "This is exactly the kind of workforce equity project SkillWorks exists to support. Not only will the Paramedics benefit from a good job at a good wage, the entire community benefits from a Paramedic team that understands the true diversity of cultures here in Boston," said Andre Green, Executive Director of SkillWorks. This work with OWD is an expansion of their ongoing partnership with Boston EMS to help city residents secure necessary training to meet the EMT hiring prerequisites through their EMT City Academy program. "We are fully committed to the equitable access of education and training for all Boston residents," said Trinh Nguyen, Director of OWD. "It's not only a priority value of this city, but it is an amazing investment for our business and economy." ABOUT BOSTON EMS Boston EMS is the primary provider of emergency medical services for the City of Boston and is a nationally recognized leader in the field of pre-hospital emergency medicine. The department leverages the latest advances in both medicine and technology to bring high-quality, compassionate care to the people of Boston. Boston EMS also plays a key role in the City's emergency preparedness efforts and provides community programming designed to educate the public about important health and safety topics.
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| Friday, February 5, 2021 - Given the improvement
in the number of COVID-19 cases and the City's positivity rate over the past
few weeks, today Mayor Martin J. Walsh announced that beginning on Monday,
February 8, the City of Boston will align with the Commonwealth of
Massachusetts' reopening guidance by lifting the 25% capacity restrictions on
local businesses, including restaurants and gyms. Effective Monday, February 8
at 5:00 a.m., businesses can operate at 40% capacity, an increase from the current
25% capacity limit. "Since the start of the pandemic, we've made decisions based on science and data. The data right now tells us things are moving in the right direction," said Mayor Walsh. "While Massachusetts continues to expand access to vaccines and our numbers trend modestly downward, we need to stay vigilant. Please keep wearing face coverings, washing your hands, staying 6 feet apart and please do not gather with people you don't live with."
As of January 28, 2021, the City was averaging 342.7 COVID-19 positive cases per day, down from 590.4 in mid-January. The City's positive rate is currently 6.2 percent, down from a high of 8.9 percent in early January. For more on COVID-19 cases per neighborhood, visit here.
The following industries in the City of Boston
may increase to 40% capacity on February 8, 2021:
Arcades and Recreational Businesses Close
Contact Personal Services (employees do not count toward the 40% limit)
Driving and
Flight Schools Golf (indoor
areas) Gyms/Health
Clubs Libraries (Boston
Public Libraries will not be open for browsing, but services will remain
available through the BPL To Go program) Lodging
(common areas) Movie
theaters (maximum of 50 people per theater) Museums Offices Places of
Worship Restaurants
(employees do not count toward the 40% limit) Retail
The City remains in Step One of Phase Three of the Reopening Massachusetts Plan. Current restrictions on gathering sizes remains the same, limiting gathering sizes to 10 people indoors and 25 people outdoors. The gatherings limit applies to private homes, event venues and public spaces. These restrictions are intended to reduce the spread of the COVID-19 virus during the public health emergency. The Inspectional Services Department (ISD) continues to coordinate the City's enforcement of these restrictions in collaboration with the Boston Police Department, the Boston Fire Department, and the Boston Public Health Commission. These departments work together to investigate and address reported COVID-19 related issues and complaints. In 2020, city agencies responded to and resolved approximately 2,500 complaints. BPD has a party line (617-343-5500) set up to flag properties to investigate. Additionally, the Licensing Board has instituted a weekly standing emergency hearing on Mondays to address any violations of these requirements over the preceding weekend. These hearings allow the Licensing Board to swiftly address these violations as they are a public health and safety concern. COVID-19 Vaccination and Testing Efforts The City is working with the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to vaccinate residents against COVID-19. This week vaccination sites opened at Fenway Park, the East Boston Neighborhood Health Center and at the Reggie Lewis Track and Athletic Center at Roxbury Community College to anyone who is eligible under the State's
vaccine distribution timeline. Following the State's lead, the Boston Public Health Commission in partnership with the Mayor's Office of Health and Human Services is working to create equitable access to the COVID-19 vaccine across all populations and neighborhoods in the city. For more information on when and where you will be eligible to receive the vaccine, visit Mass.gov/COVIDvaccine. Individuals aged 75 and older who do not have internet access, or who are having trouble navigating the site, are encouraged to call 3-1-1 to get connected to the City's Age Strong Commission. They can help answer questions and navigate the options available. The State has also announced a new 2-1-1 Mass Vaccine Scheduling Resource line. Translators are available to assist. "As we ramp up efforts to vaccinate eligible residents, we cannot lose focus on the proven ways to slow the spread of COVID-19. Wear a mask, wash your hands, practice social distancing and get tested. There are more than 30 testing sites open across the City that make COVID-19 testing quick and easy," said Chief of Health and Human Services, Marty Martinez. The City of Boston is partnering with community health centers to increase access to testing, particularly in neighborhoods experiencing higher rates of COVID-19. More information about COVID-19 testing sites throughout the city can be found here. The City is also offering mobile
testing sites that are available to anyone, regardless of symptoms and insurance coverage. The mobile testing sites are located in Upham's Corner, Grove Hall, Jamaica Plain and Hyde Park for the month of February. For more information about Boston's reopening, please visit boston.gov/reopening. For additional questions, please visit the City's coronavirus
website or call 3-1-1, Boston's 24-hour constituent hotline. Text BOSCOVID to 888-777 to receive text alerts on a regular basis, available in 11 languages.
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| Monday, February 1, 2021 – Today Boston Mayor Martin J. Walsh and Boston Emergency Medical Services Chief James Hooley celebrated the graduation of 14 Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) recruits in a small virtual ceremony. This graduating class will be assigned to 911 ambulances, strengthening the City of Boston's Emergency Medical Services (EMS). 
“During this unprecedented crisis, our EMTs and paramedic have been working selflessly on the frontlines every day to help lead the City’s response and save lives,” said Mayor Walsh, who participated in today’s ceremony with a recorded video message for the graduates. “They’ve done so with passion and dedication, and today’s recruits are ready to join the efforts as we continue to battle COVID-19. I want to thank this class for their service and congratulate them as they join the best EMS department in the country.” This academy class has been on the frontlines of the City’s COVID-19 response efforts during the pandemic. Boston EMS EMTs and paramedics have provided care to more than 4,300 patients with confirmed cases of COVID-19. 167 of those patients were treated by this class of EMS recruits. Today marks the second EMS graduation since the pandemic began last year. “This recruit class has courageously cared for Boston residents during some of the most difficult months of the pandemic. They’ve seen firsthand that putting on this uniform every day is not a job; it is a calling that takes precision and compassion. I am proud to be here today to officially welcome these men and women into our Boston EMS family. I know they’ll serve this city well,” said Boston EMS Chief James Hooley. Today's ceremony formally acknowledges the 14 recruits’ (11 men, 3 women) successful completion of a rigorous post-hire training program for EMTs at Boston EMS. Already state certified EMTs prior to their hire, this graduating class completed an additional six months of classroom and field training while complying with COVID-19 safety protocols. In total during three months of field training in ambulances, these recruits responded to 2,298 emergency incidents including strokes, stabbings, traumatic injuries, seizures, carbon monoxide illness, overdoses and more. With guidance from seasoned EMT field training officers, recruits are not only prepared to care for patients, regardless of the circumstances, they also now understand the level of care, clinical excellence and professionalism expected of Boston EMS EMTs. 
Boston EMS is one of the busiest municipal EMS providers in New England, responding to more than 125,000 emergency medical incidents per year. As a bureau of the Boston Public Health Commission (BPHC), Boston EMS is committed to serving Boston's residents through clinical excellence, emergency planning and preparedness, and community outreach. In his FY20 budget, Mayor Walsh added four EMTs to promote diversity and recruitment as well as resources to expand the capacity of Boston EMS's Community Assistance Team, also known as Squad 80. Squad 80 is a two-person team that travels in a non-transport vehicle and answers calls where patients have a low frequency of being transported to the emergency room, making more ambulances available for priority calls that need to get patients to the hospital. It also connects people to our recovery and homeless support services and other city programs. In FY21, Mayor Walsh and the City of Boston are investing in seven new ambulances, as well as new portable radios to support coordination and communication, new body armor to protect EMTs and Paramedics and new automated external defibrillators (AEDs) for patient care. 
###
ABOUT BOSTON EMS Boston EMS is the primary provider of emergency medical services for the City of Boston and is a nationally recognized leader in the field of pre-hospital emergency medicine. The department leverages the latest advances in both medicine and technology to bring high-quality, compassionate care to the people of Boston. Boston EMS also plays a key role in the City's emergency preparedness efforts and provides community programming designed to educate the public about important health and safety topics. ABOUT THE BOSTON PUBLIC HEALTH COMMISSION The Boston Public Health Commission, one of the country's oldest health departments, is an independent public agency providing a wide range of health services and programs. It is governed by a seven-member board of health appointed by the Mayor of Boston. Public service and access to quality health care are the cornerstones of our mission - to protect, preserve and promote the health and well-being of all Boston residents, particularly those who are most vulnerable. The Commission's more than 40 programs are grouped into six bureaus: Emergency Medical Services; Child Adolescent & Family Health; Community Health Initiatives; Homeless Services; Infectious Disease; and Recovery Services.
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| Sunday, January 31, 2021 - Mayor Martin J. Walsh
today declared a snow emergency ahead of the forecasted winter storm that is
scheduled to begin tomorrow morning and end Tuesday afternoon. Total snow
accumulations are expected to range between 8 to 12 inches, and winds as high
as 45 mph are expected. Residents are advised that a parking ban will take
effect starting at noon tomorrow, when vehicles parked on major roads
and main arteries will start to be towed. The City is urging residents to
abide by snow regulations and encouraging all commuters to use caution when
traveling during the Monday evening and Tuesday morning commutes. Dry weather,
paired with colder temperatures and wind chill, are anticipated on Wednesday
and Thursday following the storm. "I am urging everyone to be ready and
prepared for tomorrow's forecasted snowstorm," said Mayor Walsh. "All
of our residents and workers should take precautions on our roads and
sidewalks, particularly during the Monday evening and Tuesday morning commutes.
Our Public Works Department will be working around the clock to pre-treat and
clean our roads, and I thank them for their hard work. We are asking residents
and businesses to do their part by staying safe, shoveling their sidewalks and
walkways, clearing catch basins and the area around fire hydrants, and by
offering help to your older neighbors and residents with disabilities. The City
of Boston will continue to share updates throughout the storm." A
snow emergency has been declared, starting Monday, February 1, 2021 at
noon. A parking ban will also take effect at noon tomorrow. All vehicles
parked on a posted snow emergency artery will be towed beginning at noon
on Monday. Residents can find a list of free and discounted garages here;
and parking at participating garages will begin at 10 a.m. on
Monday.
Trash
and recycling pick-up will continue on a regular schedule on Monday,
February 1st and Tuesday, February 2nd. Residents are encouraged to
download the Trash
Day App for more information on their trash and recycling pick-up
schedule.
Nighttime
street sweeping on main roads, arterials, and commercial roads is canceled
until further notice. Updates will be provided on boston.gov when
nighttime street sweeping is scheduled to resume.
All
Boston Public Schools (BPS) students, including students who were
scheduled to report for in-person learning, will attend classes online on
both Monday and Tuesday for a partial day that will end 2.5 hours earlier
than the regularly scheduled dismissal time. There will be no in-person
learning on Monday and Tuesday, and all BPS buildings will be closed on
those days.
Due to the snowstorm, the vaccine clinic originally planned for Monday, February 1, at the Reggie Lewis Track and Athletic Center at Roxbury Community College will now be moved to next Monday, February 8. All appointments scheduled for February 1 have been automatically rescheduled for February 8.
Boston City Hall will be open to the public on
Monday, February 1st only for residents who need to pay their property taxes or
file an abatement application by the February 1st deadline. Boston City Hall
and all City departments will be open to the public on Tuesday, February 2nd. We
encourage residents to utilize our online services when possible. Boston Public
Library locations will be closed on Monday, including in-person BPL To Go services. All BCYF
community centers will be closed, remote programming will continue and
registered lap swim sessions will be cancelled from 12 p.m. on. The Public Works Department (PWD) will have
equipment to pre-treat Boston's roads prior to the snowfall starting, and the
City has the ability to put over 700 pieces of equipment on city streets. The
PWD currently has 42,000 tons of salt on hand. The Office of Emergency Management (OEM) is in
constant contact with the National Weather Service to receive detailed forecast
updates for the City of Boston and to ensure City departments have plans in
place to handle the weather. Residents can sign up to receive AlertBoston
notifications by phone, text, or email. Residents can call 311 for
non-emergency issues. Rules on clearing snow: Property
owners must fully clear snow, sleet and ice from sidewalks and curb ramps
abutting the property within three hours after the snowfall ends, or three
hours after sunrise if the snow ends overnight. Curb and pedestrian ramps
to the street should be cleared fully and continually over the duration of
the storm to ensure accessibility for individuals with disabilities. If
the storm lasts for an extended period of time, property owners are asked
to continually check and clear ramps abutting their property.
Caring for vulnerable
populations: Boston's
emergency shelters are open 24-hours a day and will accept any person in
need. Men can access shelter at the 112
Southampton Street Shelter, and women should go to the Woods-Mullen
Shelter at 794
Massachusetts Ave. BPHC and the City work closely with shelter
providers to ensure that no client is without shelter, food, resources,
and a warm respite from the cold.
The
City has over 200 beds for the winter spread throughout sites in Brighton,
Mission Hill and downtown. Additionally, the City worked with the
Commonwealth to add additional shelter capacity in locations surrounding
and outside of Boston.
The
BPHC
Engagement Center is open from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. In addition to
providing an indoor heated space, it offers a range of basic amenities and
comfort items, such as clean bathroom facilities, water, coffee, and light
snacks.
Safety tips: Shoveling
snow requires significant exertion; please be cautious and pay attention
to signs of overexertion. Stop if you feel chest pain, shortness of
breath, lightheaded, nausea, or vomiting. Call 911 if those symptoms do
not resolve quickly.
Carbon
monoxide poisoning is a concern during winter weather, especially with the
use of generators. Residents should use their home heating systems wisely
and safely, and have a working carbon monoxide detector on each floor of
the home. Call 911 immediately if you suspect carbon monoxide poisoning.
Have
a contractor check the roof to see if snow needs to be removed. If roof
snow can be removed from the ground with the use of a snow-rake, do so
with caution. Avoid working from ladders, and be mindful of slippery
surfaces.
Dress for the weather: Due
to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, residents are required to wear face
masks or cloth face coverings in all public places, whether indoors or
outdoors, even where they are able to maintain 6 feet of distance from
others.
Watch for signs of
frostbite: Signs of
frostbite include loss of feeling and white or pale appearance in
extremities such as fingers, toes, ear lobes, and the tip of the nose. If
symptoms are detected, get medical help immediately.
Watch for signs of
hypothermia: These
include uncontrollable shivering, memory loss, disorientation,
incoherence, slurred speech, drowsiness and apparent exhaustion. If you or
someone you know shows any of these symptoms, get in touch with a
healthcare provider immediately. If symptoms are severe, call 911.
Heating safety: Never try to
heat your home using a charcoal or gas grill, the kitchen stove, or other
product not specifically designed as a heater. These can cause a fire or
produce dangerous levels of carbon monoxide very quickly.
Install
and maintain smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors on every level of
your home. Carbon monoxide is an invisible gas produced whenever any fuel
is burned. Common sources include oil or gas furnaces, water heaters,
fireplaces, stoves, and some space heaters. It has no smell, taste, or
color, and it is poisonous and potentially deadly.
Emergency home repair
resources: Income-eligible
homeowners and Boston's residents over age 60 can receive assistance with
winter emergencies and repairs, such as fixing storm damage, leaking
roofs, furnaces and leaking/frozen pipes. For assistance, residents should
call the Mayor's hotline at 311 or the Boston Home Center at 617-635-HOME
(4663).
In
addition, the Mayor's Seniors Save program helps income eligible
Bostonians over the age of 60 replace old, inefficient heating systems
with a brand new heating system before a catastrophic failure occurs
during the cold winter months. Older adults can also call 311 or the
Boston Home Center at 617-635-HOME (4663) to be connected with a City
staffer to provide additional details.
For more information, please visit the Winter in Boston guide and
follow @CityofBoston on Twitter.
###
|
| Friday, January 29, 2021 - Mayor Martin J. Walsh
today shared a set of tips and guidelines for residents to manage this weekend's
bitterly cold weather. Boston is experiencing sub-zero wind chill temperatures
through Sunday, January 31. This weekend's temperatures meet the thresholds for
activating the use of warming centers in the city in accordance with COVID-19
guidelines. "We want to ensure that every Boston
resident stays warm and safe with the bitter cold weather this weekend,"
said Mayor Walsh. "It is essential that we support and look out for each
other, while also making sure we are observing COVID-19 public health guidelines.
Please continue to wear a face covering, practice social distancing, wash your
hands often, and avoid crowds as we brave these cold temperatures. I urge
Bostonians to call 911 if they see someone in distress, as we are here to help
and make sure people are safe." Wind chill values today are predicted to be as
low as -8 degrees Fahrenheit, expected to be as low as -7 degrees Fahrenheit on
Saturday, before rising to above freezing temperatures. The City is also
tracking and monitoring a possible winter storm that's expected to arrive late
Monday into early Tuesday, and preparations are being made to support the needs
of Boston residents. Warming centers are open today from 12 p.m. to 6
p.m. and tomorrow from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Due to COVID-19 public health
regulations, all warming center visitors will be screened for symptoms before
entry, must wear a face covering (covering both the nose and mouth), maintain 6
feet of distance from others, and wash their hands often with soap and water
for at least 20 seconds. Visitors must bring their own water bottles, and must
limit belongings to one small bag. Occupancy will be monitored to ensure it
doesn't exceed 25 percent of the building's maximum permitted occupancy to
maintain proper distancing. The spaces will be cleaned and disinfected hourly.
The locations of the warming centers include: Allston/Brighton:
BCYF Jackson-Mann Community Center, 500 Cambridge St.,
Allston Charlestown:
BCYF Charlestown Community Center, 255 Medford St.,
Charlestown Dorchester:
BCYF Holland Community Center, 85 Olney St., Dorchester East
Boston: BCYF Paris Street Community
Center, 112 Paris St., East Boston Hyde
Park: BCYF Hyde Park Community
Center, 1179 River St., Hyde Park Jamaica
Plain: BCYF Curtis Hall Community
Center, 20 South St., Jamaica Plain Mattapan:
BCYF Mildred Avenue Community Center, 5 Mildred Ave., Mattapan North
End: BCYF Nazzaro Community Center,
30 N. Bennet St., Boston Roslindale:
BCYF Menino Community Center, 125 Brookway Rd.,
Roslindale Roxbury:
BCYF Tobin Community Center,1481 Tremont St., Boston South
Boston: BCYF Condon Community Center,
200 D St., S. Boston South
End: BCYF Blackstone Community
Center, 50 West Brookline Street, Boston West
Roxbury: BCYF Roche Community
Center,1716 Centre St., West Roxbury
Mayor Walsh advised residents to take
precautions as the weather persists throughout the weekend, reminding them
especially to check in on older adults, people with disabilities and people
experiencing homelessness. If
you see homeless and vulnerable individuals out in the cold who appear
immobile, disoriented or underdressed for the cold, please call 911.
If residents are aware of anyone staying in a vehicle or a place not intended
for living during these extreme cold temperatures, they are encouraged to call
911 as well. The Mayor encouraged all persons in shelters,
auxiliary sites and families with young children to stay indoors and avoid the
extremely cold weather. Additionally, the Mayor announced other precautions the
city is putting in place to protect residents from the cold weather: Key safety tips include: Dress for the weather: Due to the
ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, residents are required to wear face masks or
cloth face coverings in all public places, whether indoors or outdoors,
even when they are able to maintain 6 feet of distance from others.
Watch for signs of frostbite: Signs of
frostbite include loss of feeling and white or pale appearance in extremities
such as fingers, toes, ear lobes, and the tip of the nose. If symptoms are
detected, get medical help immediately.
Watch for signs of hypothermia: These
include uncontrollable shivering, memory loss, disorientation,
incoherence, slurred speech, drowsiness and apparent exhaustion. If you or
someone you know shows any of these symptoms, contact a healthcare
provider immediately. If symptoms are severe, call 911.
Heating guidelines for
property owners and tenants: In case of
emergency, property owners are encouraged to keep a list of licensed
contractors (electrician, plumber and general contractor) on file. Tenants
experiencing problems with their heating system should check the
thermostat, ensure the dial is turned on, and report insufficient or no
heat problems to the property owner or manager immediately.
Heating safety: Never
try to heat your home using a charcoal or gas grill, a kitchen stove, or
other product not specifically designed as a heater. These can cause a
fire or produce dangerous levels of carbon monoxide very quickly.
Install
and maintain smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors on every level of
your home. Carbon monoxide is an invisible gas produced whenever any fuel
is burned. Common sources include oil or gas furnaces, water heaters,
fireplaces, stoves, and some space heaters. It has no smell, taste, or
color. It is poisonous and can be deadly.
Tips to keep water
flowing and pipes unfrozen during extreme cold: The Boston
Water and Sewer Commission recommends homeowners locate a home's main
water shut off valve, and learn how to use it. Should a frozen pipe burst,
shutting the main valve quickly will minimize flooding and property
damage.
If
pipes do freeze, slowly thaw them with a hair dryer, if possible. If water
is lost in all taps, call BWSC 24-hour Emergency Assistance Line at
617-989-7000.
Emergency home repair
resources: Income-eligible
homeowners and Boston's residents over age 60 can receive assistance with
winter emergencies and repairs, such as fixing storm damage, leaking
roofs, furnaces and leaking/frozen pipes. For assistance, residents should
call the Mayor's hotline at 311 or the Boston Home Center at 617-635-HOME
(4663).
In
addition, the Mayor's Seniors Save program helps income eligible
Bostonians over the age of 60 replace old, inefficient heating systems
with a new brand new heating system, even before a failure occurs during
the cold winter months. Older adults can also call 311 or the Boston Home
Center at 617-635-HOME (4663) to be connected with a City staffer to
provide additional details.
For emergency alerts, including cold-weather
alerts, residents are encouraged to sign up for Alert
Boston. For more information, please visit the Winter in Boston guide and
follow @CityofBoston on Twitter.
###
|
| Tuesday, January 26, 2021 - As Boston's COVID-19
numbers trend modestly downward and Massachusetts continues to expand access to
vaccination against COVID-19, Mayor Martin J. Walsh today announced the City of
Boston will return to Step One of Phase Three of the Reopening Massachusetts
plan on February 1, 2021. "I want to thank everyone who continues to
do their part to protect our city," said Mayor Walsh. "While there
has been some improvement in recent weeks, it's still vital that everyone remains
vigilant. Wear your masks. Avoid gatherings. Wash your hands and disinfect
surfaces. Think about the simple steps you can take on a daily basis to protect
yourself and your loved ones." As of January 17, 2021, the City was averaging
415.6 COVID-19 positive cases per day, down from a high of 590.4 in
mid-January, and the City's positivity rate was at 7.2 percent, down from a
high of 8.9 percent in early January. For more information on COVID-19 cases
per neighborhood, visit here. Given the improvement in the number of COVID-19
cases and the City's positivity rate, the City of Boston will return to Step
One of Phase Three of the Reopening
Massachusetts plan on February 1, 2021. Boston had been in Step One of
Phase Three of the Reopening Massachusetts plan since July 6, before returning
to a modified Step Two of Phase Two on December 16, 2020. This was done to help
reduce the spread of the virus during and after the holiday period when more
people were traveling or gathering with others from outside of their
household. Massachusetts recently announced an extension of
the existing 25 percent capacity limits for most businesses through Monday,
February 8, 2021. All gatherings and events remain subject to current capacity
limits of 10 people indoors and 25 people outdoors. The gatherings limit
applies to private homes, event venues and public spaces. For a list of sectors
subject to the extended capacity restrictions, click here. The following industries in the City of Boston
may reopen on February 1, 2021, at 25 percent capacity: Indoor
fitness centers and health clubs, including gyms using alternative
spaces Movie
theaters Museums Aquariums Indoor
recreational and athletic facilities Indoor
recreational venues with potential for low-contact (batting cages, driving
ranges, bowling alleys, rock-climbing) Sightseeing
and other organized tours (bus tours, duck tours, harbor cruises, whale
watching) Indoor
historical spaces & sites Indoor event
spaces such as meeting rooms, ballrooms, private party rooms, and social
clubs (limited to 10 people) Indoor and
outdoor gaming arcades associated with gaming devices
Additional details about the current state of
reopening can be found on Boston.gov/reopening. COVID-19 Vaccination and
Testing Efforts The City is working with the Commonwealth of
Massachusetts to vaccinate residents against COVID-19. The Reggie Lewis Center
will open as a vaccination site during the first week of February to anyone who
is eligible under the State's
vaccine distribution timeline. In Boston, two mass vaccination sites have
been announced: Fenway Park and Reggie Lewis Center. Following the State's
lead, the Boston Public Health Commission in partnership with the Mayor's
Office of Health and Human Services is working to create equitable access to
the COVID-19 vaccine across all populations and neighborhoods in the city. "In these unprecedented times, we must work
together and find new ways to support each other and our community," says
Roxbury Community College president Dr. Valerie Roberson. "It's crucial to
have a mass vaccination center that is accessible via public transportation in
a location that is familiar and comfortable. We are pleased to have the
opportunity to provide such tangible support to the City and State efforts to
combat the spread of COVID-19." For more information on when and where you will
be eligible to receive the vaccine, please visit
Mass.gov/COVIDvaccine. "Getting tested regularly and taking the
vaccine when you have the opportunity to are key to helping us defeat this
virus," said Mayor Walsh. "We have over 30 testing sites open across
the city that are quick and easy to utilize. We know people have lots of
questions about the vaccine, and we're committed to making this information as
clear and accessible as possible. I want to thank Roxbury Community College for
working with us and the Commonwealth to open a mass vaccination site at the
Reggie Lewis Center. We'll continue to work collaboratively to direct resources
to where they're needed most." Together with the Office of Arts and Culture,
the Office of Health & Human Services, and the Boston Public Health
Commission, Mayor Walsh today announced the Strand
Theatre is now serving as a COVID-19 testing site. The testing is being
conducted thanks to a partnership between the City of Boston, The Strand
Theater, the Brookside Community Health Center, Brigham and Women's Hospital,
Southern Jamaica Plain Health Center, and Upham's Corner Community Health
Center. Testing at the Strand is available to anyone at no cost and regardless
of symptoms. Insurance is also not required. The Strand, which is located at 543 Columbia
Road in the Upham's Corner neighborhood of Dorchester, is open for testing on
Mondays and Wednesdays from 8:30 a.m. - until 4:00 p.m. There is no prior
registration required, and testing is walk-up only. Individuals arriving for
testing should enter through the main entrance of the building and will wait in
line inside the theater. Testing will occur outside at a mobile van in the back
parking lot of the Strand. There will be no public parking available at the
Strand during testing. The City of Boston is partnering with community
health centers to increase access to testing, particularly in neighborhoods
experiencing higher rates of COVID-19. More information about COVID-19 testing
sites throughout the city can be found here.
The City is also offering mobile
testing sites that are available to anyone, regardless of symptoms and
insurance coverage. For more information about Boston's reopening,
please visit boston.gov/reopening.
For additional questions, please visit the City's coronavirus
website or call 3-1-1, Boston's 24-hour constituent hotline. Text
BOSCOVID to 888-777 to receive text alerts on a regular basis, available in 11
languages. ###
|
| Sunday, January 17, 2021- The first case of the COVID variant B.1.1.7. has been found in a Boston resident who traveled internationally. This individual, a woman in her 20s, returned to Boston on January 3, 2021 and had a brief (approximately 2 hour) layover at Logan International Airport before traveling to another state. This individual remains in that state and is currently asymptomatic. The Boston Public Health Commission's Infectious Disease Bureau is working closely with our partners at the Massachusetts Department of Public Health on a thorough case investigation. The health and well-being of all Boston residents remains our top priority. We will monitor this situation closely and we continue to closely watch the City's COVID-19 metrics. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there is no evidence that this variant causes more severe illness or increased risk of death. However, we know this variant of the virus spreads more easily and quickly than other variants. A higher transmission rate will lead to more cases and could potentially lead to a burden our health care system. That is why it is critical we all stay vigilant and do everything we can to stop the spread of this virus. We need everyone to continue to stay home as much as possible, always wear a face mask when outside your home, keep at least 6 feet of distance between yourself and others, wash your hands often and continue to get tested. ###
Media Contact:
Caitlin McLaughlin cmclaughlin@bphc.org
(857-393-0002)
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