On Thursday, the Stanly County Health Department began administering the first doses of the COVID-19 vaccine to qualified health professionals.
Patti Lewis, a nurse at the Stanly County Department of Health, was the first to receive the vaccine.
“I think it is essential to get this vaccine because we have had many deaths from COVID,” said Lewis. “We have so many ICUs that are overloaded and that puts a lot of pressure on everyone. This is a big step in helping to reduce this. “
“Planning and logistics are crucial in the distribution of the COVID-19 vaccine,” said David Jenkins, Director of Health and Human Services. “Each vial of Moderna vaccine contains 10 doses and we must coordinate the scheduling of 10 people eligible to receive it at our drive-thru. Once we open the bottle seal, we have only six hours to administer it before it expires and [we] I don’t want any to be wasted. “
The Stanly County Department of Health will continue to administer the COVID-19 vaccine in the coming weeks and months. The focus is currently on vaccinating workers who fall into Phase 1a, as designated by the state.
Groups will be vaccinated in the following stages determined by state guidelines:
• Phase 1a: Health workers battling COVID-19 and long-term care workers and residents;
• Phase 1b: Adults aged 75 and over and essential frontline workers;
• Phase 2: Adults at high risk of exposure and at increased risk of serious illness;
• Phase 3: Students;
Phase 4: Everyone who wants a safe and effective COVID-19 vaccination.
The Stanly County Department of Health will notify the public when the COVID-19 vaccine is available to them during each phase. You have a place to put your shot.
You can stop the virus from spreading by following the three Ws:
● Use a cloth cover for your face.
● Wait 6 feet away. Avoid close contact.
● Wash your hands frequently or use hand sanitizer.