By JULIE CUNNINGHAM
(Boston, MA) Today Governor Charlie Baker confirmed that the Federal government will in fact be sending smaller quantities of the COVID-19 vaccine than was ordered by the Baker administration. Baker said the cuts are nation wide, and many states are bearing the bad news. Massachusetts will be receiving 42,000 doses instead of the 59,000 doses originally anticipated.
“At this time it’s not clear to us why the shipment amount has been adjusted. We are certainly frustrated,” said Baker.
Baker is working to get clarity on what the reduced shipment amount means moving forward. Meanwhile, the distribution of vaccines around the Commonwealth will continue with first responders next in line. Baker renewed his commitment to insure Massachusetts residents are vaccinated as quickly and safely as possible. The change in delivery should result in only a slight delay in the vaccination process. The second Moderna vaccine has been cleared by an FDA panel and is on the way to emergency approval.