HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) - Connecticut Gov. Ned Lamont is criticizing the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for recommending a pause in the administering of the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine.
The Democrat said Wednesday the response to a potential for a blood-clotting side effect, reported in six cases out of more than 7 million inoculations in the U.S., was an overreaction.
“I would have handled it differently and I let them know that,” he said while attending a ceremonial bill signing for a new law that codifies his executive orders allowing outdoor dining at restaurants.
Lamont said both Pfizer and Moderna will be providing extra doses of their vaccines to help make up the difference. But he said the issue now is convincing those who are hesitant to get inoculated that the vaccines are safe an effective.
“One in a million is like getting hit by lightning,” he said. “So, this should give you confidence that they’re not rushing any vaccines out there and whatever is out there is very safe.”
In other coronavirus-related news:
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NURSING HOME TESTING
Representatives of the state’s nursing home and assisted living industries on Wednesday welcomed news that the state of Connecticut will continue to cover the cost of regular COVID-19 testing through June 30.
The extended testing is expected to cost $45 million.
“First of all, the testing has been such a help in getting us through this pandemic, out of the real critical times of pandemic. It’s been such a key tool for us to use and our infection control program,” said Mag Morelli, president of LeadingAge Connecticut.
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YARD GOATS FANS
Hartford’s minor league baseball team says it will be allowing fans back at games this season with some strict COVID-19 protocols.
The Double-A Hartford Yard Goats will open the season at half capacity, with about 3,000 fans allowed in for each game.
Tickets will be sold in socially distant pods, with 2 to 6 seats together.
Fans will be required to wear masks, except while eating or drinking, which will be allowed only at their seats. The concession stands will be cashless, accepting only debit, credit and gift cards.
The Yard Goats home opener is set for Tuesday, May 11th against the Boston Red Sox affiliate, the Portland Sea Dogs.
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