Since the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak in March 2021, people have battled the virus and fought relentlessly to keep our communities safe and healthy. With the arrival of the vaccines, we finally have an effective weapon against the virus. And a new hope for a gradual return back to the new normal.
As the COVID-19 vaccines are being distributed across the country, Consulate Health Care has also made a commitment to providing all of our staff and residents with the opportunity to get vaccinated if they wish to do so. All vaccines currently available have shown to be safe and effective at preventing COVID-19. Getting vaccinated can reduce the risk of contracting the virus and severe illness and hospitalization for people infected with it. Likewise, by protecting ourselves, we are also protecting others.
We talked to some members of our staff who received the COVID-19 vaccine to discuss the importance of getting vaccinated and why they decided to do it. This is what they had to say:
Kerry Williams, Business Office Manager at Coral Bay Healthcare and Rehabilitation
Why did you decide to get vaccinated?
First, to stay safe myself. The vaccine is 95% safe, and I have confidence in the trials. I believe this is the only way to get back to life as “normal” and build immunity. I felt strongly about the safety, and I trust the research that has been done. Second, I am a trusted member of our team here at the center, and I strive to lead by example. I would not only encourage my coworkers, but I would also try to be by their side when they were getting their vaccines. Lastly, I want to see my children and grandchildren, and I want to be comfortable and know it is safe to be around them. And personally, seeing my grandkids is my priority, and I want to ensure everyone is safe while we are together.
Why do you think it is important for others working in long-term care to get vaccinated?
In our daily jobs, we are constantly in contact with the elderly, and they are more susceptible to getting sick. We need to protect them, it is more than just our jobs, it’s the commitment we made to those we take care of. We are entrusted with their care, we have to ensure we are providing a safe environment and service to them and their families. I believe we should vaccinate to keep ourselves and our residents safe.
Jackie Lampkin, Admissions Director at Coral Bay Healthcare and Rehabilitation
Why did you decide to get vaccinated?
Personally, I am concerned with my immunity and I want to protect myself, while making sure my family is safe. I am also in contact with many people here and I want to protect everyone. Also, my mom lives at home with me, and it is important for me to know I am keeping her safe.
Why do you think it is important for others working in long-term care to get vaccinated?
The majority of us are in contact with our families, and I know everyone wants to keep them safe. It is not only for our patients at work but their families too. Also, we all should want the people around us to be safe. I always tell others why I got my vaccine and why they should do it too. Let’s stop the spread.
Tracy Goodin, Business Office Manager at Starkville Manor Health Care and Rehabilitation Center
Why did you decide to get vaccinated?
To protect myself, my family and the residents here at the care center. Safety is my priority now, and I know it is everyone else’s too, so I want to ensure I am protected and protecting others.
Why do you think it is important for others working in long-term care to get vaccinated?
It is important to protect residents and ourselves. At the nursing home, we have vulnerable people, and we need to make sure they are safe.
Jennifer Mhoon, Activities Director at Starkville Manor Health Care and Rehabilitation Center
Why did you decide to get vaccinated?
Because I had a close encounter with COVID, I had double pneumonia and was hospitalized last year. I don’t ever want to get sick like that ever again, it was so scary. I want to protect my family and anyone I come in contact with.
Why do you think it is important for others working in long-term care to get vaccinated?
I want everyone to get vaccinated and be protected. Here, we are around vulnerable people. We have to look out for others right now, and getting vaccinated is a way to do that.
Consulate Health Care’s unwavering commitment to everyone’s safety and well-being has never been stronger. For more information on vaccines, please visit www.CDC.gov or contact your local care centers Executive Director or Director of Nursing.
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