WHITMAN, MASSACHUSETTS (PLYMOUTH COUNTY) - Firefighter/Paramedics in Whitman have recently taken on the task of performing COVID-19 testing and also COVID-19 vaccination of area first responders. Members of the team, referred to as "Shot Team", agreed to be a part of the testing and vaccinations program that is being hosted by the Town of Whitman at the Central Fire Station at 56 Temple Street. Starting in late December, Whitman Fire started a program in which drive-up testing would be available for Town of Whitman employees who are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, or who had a known exposure to someone who has COVID-19. Both rapid, and PCR testing is available. This is in an effort to keep Town employees safe, and keep the virus from spreading, especially during this time of very high COVID numbers being reported all throughout Massachusetts. As has been well reported, an outbreak in any department could be catastrophic, with numerous people out sick or due to the CDC quarantine requirements. Thus far, the program has been successful, catching positive cases, and keeping the employees out of work, thus keeping their co-workers and families safe. Starting on January 23rd, Whitman Fire opened its doors to firefighters for their first dose of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine. The clinic is held at the Fire Station and is staffed by Shot Team paramedics who administer the vaccine, document the vaccination, and monitor the patients for adverse reactions. Once the Whitman Firefighters who wish to be vaccinated are, other town first responders will also be vaccinated. Once Whitman first responders have been vaccinated, the site will be open to first responders from Abington, Avon, Bridgewater State, East Bridgewater, Halifax, Hanson, Holbrook, Lakeville, Middleboro, Randolph, Raynham, Rockland and West Bridgewater according to the mass.gov website.
