COVID-19 Vaccine Arrives at Memorial Community Health
Memorial Community Health in Aurora has received its first allocation of Moderna COVID-19 vaccine designated for its healthcare staff and will begin vaccinating employees this week. As a critical access hospital and health system, the vaccination of healthcare workers is included in the state of Nebraska’s Phase 1A allocation recommendations.
“We couldn’t be more excited for the vaccination process to begin,” commented Diane Keller, CEO of Memorial Community Health (MCHI). “It’s a step forward in the battle against COVID-19 and gives hope for a way out of this pandemic.”
Vaccination of residents at MCHI’s long-term care facility, Memorial Community Care, and residents of its assisted and independent living facility, East Park Villa, will receive the vaccine as well. “We are pleased that the state has also prioritized residents in their Phase 1A vaccine distribution plans,” says Leeta Christie, RN and MCHI’s Infection Preventionist, who participated in the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine trials. “Protecting this most vulnerable population is so important.”
The Moderna vaccine is to be administered in two separate shots given 28 days apart. While encouraged, the vaccine is not mandatory for MCHI employees or residents.
In regards to safety, Keller says that, “After hours and hours of meetings, discussions and research, I have confidence in the safety and effectiveness of this vaccine. When it’s my turn to be vaccinated, I have no concerns and will gladly take my first shot, followed by my second shot 4 weeks later.”
Distribution of the vaccine to further segments of the population are provided in the DHHS and CDC vaccination plans. Due to a limited supply and tiered distribution directives, it is estimated that vaccine will not be available to the general public until spring 2021. For more information, visit the CDC website at www.cdc.gov or the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services at www.dhhs.ne.gov.
