BOSTON (WHDH) – More than 1,200 doses of COVID-19 in vaccine have been wasted from Massachusetts.
Government officials say 1,096 doses of the Moderna vaccine and 176 doses of the Pfizer vaccine have been lost, totaling 1,272.
Of the 960,100 doses shipped so far, officials say it is a wastage rate of 0.13.
“Any vaccine that is lost is a missed opportunity,” Governor Charlie Baker said. A great loss. “
In Somerville, one doctor’s office is taking action not to spoil their shots.
Dr. Deborah Bershel, who works at Davis Square Family Practice, said she had to hand out 100 doses one day, but when her office started calling patients 75 and older, they were surprised by the response.
“About 50 percent of our 75 and older patients already had a vaccine and one said she had received three offers for a vaccine,” Bershel said.
The problem is that once the Moderna vials are opened, they have to go into the arms within six hours, otherwise they are thrown out.
To make sure there are no remnants at the Somerville practice, Bershel said her Phase 2 staff began offering vaccines.
“Someone who is 64 years old, with diabetes and heart disease, cannot qualify as someone whose 75 is hiding at home … that’s ridiculous,” she said.
The state says this action is in order. If the vaccine expires, health professionals can give the shot to someone in another priority group.
“It’s like a war,” Bershel said. “We need to get people vaccinated as soon as possible.”
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