Despite the rising numbers in COVID-19 cases, Gov. Ned Lamont is assuring residents the state has the tools it needs to fight the virus in the new year.

"This is not 2020 and this is not 2021. We are in a very different position than we were before," said Lamont. "We have tools to keep you safe, more importantly you have all the tools to keep yourself safe."

On a national level, Sen. Richard Blumenthal says 500,000 tests are an important start, but more are needed.

"We need billions," he said. "Literally two, three, four billion."

Connecticut's positivity rate on Monday was at 21.5%.

Health officials are pleading with people to stay home, regardless of how mild their symptoms may be.

They are also emphasizing getting the vaccine and booster shots.

"We have plenty of vaccines, no excuse if you are not boosted right now," said Connecticut Health Commissioner Dr. Manisha Juthani. "The good news is if you're vaccinated, particularly if you are boosted, the majority of people are having mild symptoms, some are even asymptomatic."

Lamont says there are more tests coming.

"We're going to get through it," said Lamont.

Lamont also says he expects another shipment of at-home COVID-19 tests to arrive later this month.