VERNON, Conn. (WTNH) — Gov. Ned Lamont and Connecticut Department of Public Health Commissioner Dr. Manisha Juthani are encouraging health networks and nursing homes to hold COVID-19 booster shot clinics over the next few weeks.

“We gotta get those booster clinics right at the nursing homes,” Lamont said during a press conference Thursday. “They’re taking care of the most fragile people. They were the first ones vaccinated going back some 11 months in some cases.”

The governor said he does not expect to issue any executive orders on boosters. He is deferring to federal guidance but is still urging those over 18 to get one if it has been six or more months since they were vaccinated.

Connecticut has some of the highest vaccination rates, but cases are surging in surrounding states. In one week, the state went from over 30 towns to over 60 towns in the red with cases spiking.

“Other states around us are redder, more infected,” Lamont said. “We’re not an island. It will protect you and your family.”

The main focus on who should get the COVID-19 booster shot was the vulnerable, elderly, and immune-compromised.

Now, Lamont says the focus is on everyone, especially if it’s been over six months since getting vaccinated against COVID.

According to physicians at Rockville General Hospital in Vernon, 75% of patients hospitalized are unvaccinated. Vernon was nationally recognized by the CDC for its community vaccination efforts.

“If you got vaccinated 7, 8, 9, 10 months ago like I did, your immunity is most likely waning,” Juthani said. “We have the opportunity to get people vaccinated here in Connecticut to fight the next wave that is coming.”

Almost 36,000 kids in Connecticut ages 5-11 have been vaccinated so far. Juthani said that’s another step in the right direction.

You can get a booster shot at most pharmacies and health centers across the state. Find a location near you here.