Lincoln County’s positive COVID-19 tests and positivity rates were at the highest weekly count of the pandemic as of last week reported LincolnHealth’s John Martins April 4. From April 26 to May 2, 575 tests were conducted resulting in 36 positive cases, a 6.26% positivity rate.

LincolnHealth Chief Medical Officer Dr. Timothy Fox said the common thread in the cases is a lack of vaccination in those testing positive. “It has become crystal clear that the vaccine is effective, and for the health of all concerned, we encourage all eligible Lincoln County residents to be vaccinated as soon as possible.”

Martins said LincolnHealth’s Boothbay Region YMCA vaccination clinic surpassed 20,000 doses May 3 and Miles Campus Respiratory Care Clinic performed its 8,000th test in April.

The BRYMCA clinic is open for walk-in appointments 8:15 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. Monday through Friday and a special 8 a.m. to noon Saturday, May 8 session. The Friday, May 14 session will be shortened to 8:15 to 11:45 a.m.

Martins said walk-in patients must be over 18, with photo ID and, if the patient is insured, their insurance card. Patients without insurance will not be charged for the vaccine and the clinic is working locally to provide free transportation to the clinic for those who need it, he said. To schedule a ride, call: 633-1915.

To choose the best day, time and clinic location for a scheduled appointment, visit www.vaccine.mainehealth.org or call 1-877-780-7545. Those 16 to 18 years old can schedule an appointment for the Pfizer vaccine at MidCoast Hospital’s clinic at Brunswick Parks and Recreation by visiting https://www.signupgenius.com/go/30e0c4cacad23a4fa7-05031. Midcoast’s walk-ins run 9 a.m. to noon and 3 to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday.