Looking Forward
12-23-2020

Reflecting on this year, it’s hard to believe all that we have been through together.  We never could have imagined the changes we have seen, and the impact COVID-19 has had on us, our loved ones, and our communities. But now with the imminent arrival of FDA-approved COVID-19 vaccines—the best possible holiday gift for all of us—we are seeing a new path forward to a better year ahead.  As you no doubt know, many of our residents and staff members are at the front of the line, with priority access to the vaccine. And while the current spike of this disease is spreading throughout the country like we have not seen before, and precautions are more important than ever, there is a bright light glowing at the end of the tunnel.

V-day, for vaccine and victory, are within reach at last. With that in mind, here’s what our residents and team members need to know about getting vaccinated and returning to a more normal—and enjoyable—life.

• We wholeheartedly believe it is our shared responsibility to help one another stay safe and healthy. We are excited that with the vaccines, we now have an even stronger tool to use in this fight.    

• We have partnered with CVS/Omnicare to help manage the administration of the vaccine which is being given in two doses: the second dose following approximately 3-4 weeks after the first.  

• We are expecting the clinics to begin within the next several weeks and possibly as soon as next week. In addition, since the notification of the clinic date could be very quick, should you wish to review any questions with your physician, we suggest you do this ahead of time so that you are ready to go and do not miss out on this opportunity.

• Per the CDC, all COVID-19 vaccines were tested in clinical trials involving tens of thousands of people to make sure they meet safety standards and protect adults of different races, ethnicities, and ages, including adults over the age of 65. And like any vaccine, recipients may experience some side effects such as soreness at the injection site or signs and symptoms like fever and chills. After a review of all the available information, the CDC agreed the lifesaving benefits of the COVID-19 vaccination for residents outweighs the risks of possible side effects. (Anecdotally, we have heard the typical vaccine side effects are more than the flu shot but less than the shingles vaccine.) You can find more information about the vaccine at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/recommendations/LTCF-residents.html and a preview of the CVS/Omnicare COVID-19 Vaccine Consent Form is available at https://www.omnicare.com/covid-19-vaccine-resource.

• Once you have your initial vaccination shot, your body will begin to develop immunity, but you will not be immune from the virus at this point. You will need to continue to wear your mask and practice precautionary measures. This is crucial so that you are not only able to receive the second shot and complete the immunization process but also because while the CDC strongly feels the vaccine’s benefits outweigh the possible risks, it is not 100% foolproof. Continue to make smart choices regarding your health.

• Because the vaccines are part of a federal initiative, there will be no cost to residents or team members. 

While there is still information yet to be determined, the availability of this newest tool to combat the virus is exciting progress. We look forward to a better and brighter year ahead and getting back to the things we love. We will continue to update you as we receive more information. For any questions, please reach out to your Executive Director. Thank you all for helping us all to remain safe together.