CONCORD, N.H. (AP) — New Hampshire’s new vaccine registration system struggled to meet demand in its first big test Monday.
The state last week replaced the federal Vaccine Administration Management System with its own Vaccine and Immunization Network Interface, VINI for short. Thousands of people experienced problems with the previous system, particularly in scheduling their second doses, and officials had expected the new system to avoid those woes. But it was beset with technical problems Monday morning, when registration opened to anyone age 50 and older.
“Registrations may still be processed, but at a slower pace. We are working diligently to address these issues and will provide updates as soon as they become available,” read a message on the the state’s vaccine website. “We sincerely apologize for any delays you may be experiencing.”
Gov. Chris Sununu last week said about 200,000 first-dose appointments would be loaded into the system.
“So folks shouldn’t worry about having to be just the first one in line. There’s going to be plenty of room for everyone,” he said Thursday. “Everyone doesn’t need to rush into the system at 8:00 a.m. on the 22nd.”
In other coronavirus developments:
VACCINATED TEACHERS
Schools in Concord were closed Monday because of staff absences attributed to vaccine side-effects.
Teachers, school staff and child care workers became eligible for the vaccine last week, and a vaccination clinic was held in Concord over the weekend.
School was canceled Monday because of staff reactions to vaccines, said Assistant Superintendent Donna Palley.
The main side effects from the COVID-19 vaccines currently approved in the U.S. include pain at the injection site and flu-like fever, fatigue and headache.
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