After shutdowns at other COVID-19 vaccine clinics, Portland International Jetport opens one

File photo Portland International Jetport is slated to get $4.8 million as part of broader funding for airports across the state.

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By Staff

Weeks after most of Maine's mass vaccination sites shut down, Portland International Jetport and the Maine Department of Health and Human Services have launched a clinic where people can receive a COVID-19 vaccine, without an appointment, seven days a week.

The clinic began operation at the airport Tuesday and is open from noon to 8 p.m. daily, according to a news release. The clinic provides the Johnson & Johnson vaccine to anyone age 18 or older, including travelers and residents, for free.

There’s even free parking — validation at the adjacent garage for up to 45 minutes — for anyone getting vaccinated.

“The state of Maine has been a great partner throughout the COVID-19 pandemic," Airport Director Paul Bradbury said in the news release. "We had over 35,000 individuals take advantage of our testing site at the airport from November 2020 through May 2021, and we are now excited to be able to provide single-shot vaccines to travelers and community members."

Maine DHHS Commissioner Jeanne Lambrew said, “This partnership offers more safe, effective, and free COVID-19 vaccinations to Maine people and anyone flying into or out of the state. Adding this clinic, with vaccinations available regardless of residency, is another way to ensure that Maine is one of the safest places to be this summer.”

Pandemic-related requirements vary by destination for fully vaccinated Americans traveling by air to other countries. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control & Prevention provide a useful guide outlining precautions.

Regardless of vaccination status or citizenship, all air passengers coming to the United States are required to have a negative COVID-19 test result or documentation of recovery from COVID-19 before they board a flight to the U.S.