MERIDEN — Police Chief Roberto Rosado talked recently about his experience getting the COVID-19 vaccine. 

Question: Did you experience any symptoms during your first shot? 

Answer: The first shot was not bad, just some soreness for 24 hours.

Q: Did you experience any symptoms during your second shot? 

A: The second time, I had a few symptoms. I experienced cold chills, it felt like I had minor flu symptoms that lasted less than 12 hours. I spoke with some people as well that did not experience anything.

Q: What vaccine did you receive? 

A: I got the Moderna vaccine. 

Q: What were your concerns leading up to the shot? 

A: I had no worries or concerns. The only worry I had was, is it gonna work? But after learning, it is more effective; it has certainly made me feel more comfortable.

Q: How were you able to schedule your COVID-19 vaccine appointment? 

A: We contacted the health department to schedule an appointment, then they gave us an appointment for the next one, just a phone call.

Q: What did you have to provide to the vaccine appointment? 

A: You bring in your documents for the appointment.

Q: What would you tell someone who is considering getting the vaccine? 

A: I would tell someone not to consider it and get it done. The more people we have vaccinated the quicker we can get it done. If we are a part of the solution then we are not a part of the problem.

Q: What would you like to say about your experience receiving the vaccine? 

A: Well, the convenience, getting the shot, and the ability to get it is very convenient, and the convenient location. There is a  clinic at Meriden Senior Center, it has parking across the street, it's accessible and has accessibility for handicapped as well...Our health department does a great job. They made an appointment, within 15 minutes I got the shot. They also do a great job with scheduling and there is no wait.

Q: How has the vaccine rollout impacted your role as chief of police? 

A: It has impacted me slightly because I am working more with the health department. The additional workload is with support and coordination with other agencies such as the health department. The work that we do is to support them with rolling out testing or vaccination clinics, communicating COVID-related issues, and/or assisting them with inspections for possible violations.

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