Mass COVID Vaccinations Begin At Fenway Park Before Nor'easter Hits Boston
BOSTON (CBS) – A snowy scene in Boston didn't keep Fenway Park from becoming a full house for vaccinations, and Mary Mehrez was not about to miss her first shot on opening day. "I'm very relieved to get it, we'll see how much standing I have to do," she said.
There was a changeup in the plans as the day wore on and the predicted snow did not become heavier until late afternoon. The early closing time of 1:00 p.m. was abandoned due to better conditions and the mass vaccination site remained open until 5:00 p.m.
Though people with afternoon appointments were originally told to come to the park earlier, organizers say everyone with appointments was accommodated no matter what time they arrived. "I was nervous about the storm and nervous about getting here," said Mary Regan who had a 3:50 p.m. appointment but arrived at the park by late morning. "They did a wonderful job, everyone doubled up today."
Anticipating cancellations due to the forecast, operators of the site say they were careful about opening vials so no vaccine would be wasted. "We went slower opening vials," said Rodrigo Martinez of CIC Health. "By the time the puncture happens it needs to be used in a certain amount of time."
The day brought out Red Sox fans who felt lucky to get the Fenway location for their vaccination. "It brings back wonderful memories. It's great and I just want to go to another game," said Harvey Korotkin.
Sharon Potenza said she felt fortunate as well. "I'm excited about the shot but also about being inside Fenway. I'm a huge Red Sox fan, I've only been here two or three times and it just feels so good," Potenza said.
Fenway Park will be open its scheduled time from 9:00 to 5:00 on Tuesday and anyone who didn't come in for their appointment Monday will be rescheduled.
Visit Mass.Gov/CovidVaccine to find out when you're eligible and to book an appointment.
