Gov. Ned Lamont Wednesday says Connecticut residents should not let their guard down on New Year's Eve from COVID-19.

The governor says hospitalizations are down by 59 across Connecticut just over the last 24 hours, and that the state positivity rate is just below 6%.  

"I can't force you what you do on New Year's Eve in your own residence," Lamont says, when asked about large private parties at homes during the holiday.

According to state guidelines, it is recommended that private gatherings both indoors and outdoors be limited to 10 people.

Lamont took the opportunity to thank the Connecticut Department of Public Health for its work to get vaccines to the state and put Connecticut in a position ahead of the pack when compared to others nationally.

Gov. Lamont also congratulated Miguel Cardona on his nomination to serve as United States Secretary of Education in President-elect Joe Biden's cabinet, and thanked him for his work during the 2020 pandemic in Connecticut.

Gov. Lamont reflected on the hard work of his labor team during 2020 pandemic and thanked them for all their work.

He says those eligible for COVID-19 vaccines across Connecticut during Phase 1a will receive their second vaccine within the next month.

Around 55,000 doses have already been administered across Connecticut. 

He says Phase 1b guidelines on vaccinations will be released soon.