The city of Paterson is pushing to keep COVID-19 infection rates low and to increase the number of people getting their booster shots.

The city teamed with the Department of Health to improve access and outreach. Paterson has one of the highest COVID-19 vaccination rates in the state but lags behind in booster shot rates.

The DOH’s vaccine ambassador says that only 34% of eligible Paterson residents are boosted.

"The goal of the program is to have 70% of the eligible population boosted and increase the primary uptake series for ages 5 to 11,” says Kenese Robinson.

Paterson residents can get their booster shots this Saturday at Seminary Baptist Church from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.

New Jersey’s overall COVID-19 numbers are holding steady in a tight range of 800-900 new daily cases. Health officials reported 887 new positive cases of the virus on Thursday. The rate of transmission is at .77.

Hospitalizations are also on a slow decline. Officials say that there are 728 COVID-19 patients in New Jersey hospitals – the lowest number since Nov. 15.

Newark’s University Hospital reported a milestone on Thursday – no COVID-19 patients at all.

President and CEO Dr. Shereef Elnahal tweeted, “Huge milestone for our health care heroes, and the patients and families we serve. Let’s keep this going as long as possible.”