South Florida Among the First Areas to Receive COVID-19 Vaccine
News of the efficacy of Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine has brought hope to many that we could finally turn the corner on the pandemic. Research indicates that the vaccine is more than 90% effective, including on the most vulnerable populations. Five health systems in Florida were chosen to receive the first batch.
As of Monday 21st, more than 40,000 individuals have been vaccinated with Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine. Starting with health care workers, people from Miami, Broward, Tampa, Jacksonville and Orlando have all received the vaccine.
At Mase Mebane, we know that the pandemic has affected nearly every sector of the population. We remain open and committed to you during these unprecedented times. Visit our COVID 19 Resource Center or call our office at (844) 627-3529 for more information.
COVID-19 Vaccine First Batch
As reported by Miami’s Local 10 News, Jackson Health System is one of the first hospitals in the state to receive Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine along with Memorial Regional in Broward, UF Health in Jacksonville, Tampa General, and Advent Health in Orlando.
The first batch of the vaccine went to the following individuals:
- Frontline healthcare workers
- Staff and residents at long-term care facilities
- First responders
Jackson Health System’s preparedness and proactivity helped them in the selection process. In a statement to Local 10 News, spokesperson Lidia Amoretti indicated that Jackson Health was prepared for “immediate distribution.” Jackson ensured eligibility by filing the proper registration with the Florida Shots Program and purchasing “ultra-cold freezers” to ensure that they had the “capacity to safely store the vaccine.”
Officials Warn Not to Let Guard Down
While the vaccine’s effectiveness and imminent first-batch distribution are extremely promising, officials warn residents to remain vigilant and not let their guard down. Doctors fear that news of a vaccine could result in fewer people following safe practices put forward by state and local officials.
A spokesperson for Memorial Healthcare System, who will also be receiving part of the first batch, shared in an emailed statement to Local 10 News, “The initial data and efficacy of the COVID-19 vaccines are encouraging, yet they are not the whole story. Equally as important as the vaccine is the practice of following safety guidelines: wearing a mask, practicing physical distance and washing hands often.”
It is also vital to remember that the COVID-19 vaccine requires two doses, with the second dose occurring 21 days after the initial shot. All of the individuals who have received that first dose so far will need to return for their second to become “fully immunized.”
Contact Our Office for More Information
The incredible headway made by scientists at Pfizer and other vaccine development companies gives us all hope that the worst pandemic in over a century could soon come to an end. However, even with the vaccine on the horizon, it remains imperative to heed the warnings of doctors and other medical professionals to practice social distancing, wear face masks, and wash our hands often.
At Mase Mebane, we understand that these have been trying times. We are dedicated to providing each of our clients with superior legal representation throughout this health crisis. For over three decades, our trial lawyers have been helping injury victims recover millions in settlements and verdicts. Contact our office at (844) 627-3529 for a free consultation.