Springfield lags behind state in COVID vaccinations Updated May 03, 2021; Posted May 03, 2021 Springfield Health and Human Services Commissioner Helen Caulton-Harris, seen in file photo, is among local officials urging the public to get vaccinated for COVID-19. (Don Treeger / The Republican) Facebook Share SPRINGFIELD — Municipal and health officials urged residents Monday to step up COVID-19 vaccinations, saying the city lags behind statewide vaccination rates despite many open appointments and expanding neighborhood clinics. While the number of new COVID-19 cases dropped significantly among Springfield residents last week, officials said vaccination rates can greatly improve, particularly among many younger adults who appear unwilling or hesitant to get the vaccines.