Washington County's COVID-19 vaccination rate is stalling as the state overall ranks as the second best in the nation in percentage of residents who are fully vaccinated, according to the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). County vaccination rates vary from a high of 73% in Eastport to a low of 39% in Cutler.
      According to the Maine CDC COVID 19 website, Washington County's vaccination rate has slowed considerably since May 10. As of May 25, state data show similar numbers to those reported on May 10 with 51%, or 14,022, of the county's residents having received their final dose and 42.14%, or 11,643, having received their first dose.
      Overall the state has gained significant ground. Governor Janet Mills released on May 25 that Maine reached a vaccination milestone, delivering at least one shot of a COVID 19 vaccine to more than 70% of Maine people eligible to receive a vaccine, according to the U.S. CDC. Maine has now given at least one shot of a vaccine to 70.5% of Maine people 12 and older. State and county population numbers and percentages include all Maine residents, though COVID 19 vaccine is currently authorized only for people age 12 and older. None of the vaccines are currently authorized for persons under age 12.
      Data collected on those who have received at least one dose of vaccine as of May 17 in Washington County is available on the Maine CDC COVID-19 dashboard website. Following Eastport's high rate, Lubec clocks in at 69%. Perry is at 41% but neighboring Pembroke is at 60% and Robbinston at 56%. Calais is at 65% and Baileyville at 54%. Whiting is at 58%, Meddybemps is at 60%, Dennysville at 48%, East Machias at 52%, Machiasport at 44% and Machias at 55%. Jonesboro is at 59%, but Jonesport is at 50%. The state updates its website dedicated to vaccination rates by zip code every two weeks. The next round of numbers should be available in early June.
      "We are getting shots into arms at a nation leading pace, seeing our case counts trend downward and getting back to normal," says Governor Mills. "Maine people deserve to be proud of the progress they've made, but let's not stop here: if you haven't had your shot yet, I encourage you to talk to your doctor about why it's safe to roll up your sleeve to protect your health and that of your loved ones."
      The COVID 19 vaccine is available at no charge at sites across the state. Through Monday, May 31, adults getting their first dose of the vaccine can get a "Shot to Get Outdoors" incentive. Individuals who receive a vaccination by May 31 will qualify for a free ticket to the Sea Dogs or Oxford Plains Speedway; entry into the Maine Wildlife Park or a state park; a free fishing or hunting license if eligible; or a $20 L.L. Bean gift card. For information on getting a COVID 19 vaccine, visit www.Maine.gov/covid19/vaccines or call the Community Vaccination Line at 1 888 445 4111.