COVID-19 Vaccine and Distribution

COVID-19 mRNA vaccines give instructions for our cells to make a harmless piece of what is called the “spike protein.” The spike protein is found on the surface of the virus that causes COVID-19.

COVID-19 mRNA vaccines are given in the upper arm muscle. Once the instructions (mRNA) are inside the muscle cells, the cells use them to make the protein piece. After the protein piece is made, the cell breaks down the instructions and gets rid of them.

Next, the cell displays the protein piece on its surface. Our immune systems recognize that the protein doesn’t belong there and begin building an immune response and make antibodies, like what happens in natural infection against COVID-19.

At the end of the process, our bodies have learned how to protect against future infection. The benefit of mRNA vaccines, like all vaccines, is those vaccinated gain this protection without ever having to risk the serious consequences of getting sick with COVID-19.

(Source: CDC)

The speed with which the vaccine was developed did not sacrifice scientific standards, the integrity of the vaccine review process, or safety according to the FDA.  Although Emergency Use Authorization will be the method of approval, vaccine companies have had to prove safety for at least two months after the final doses in Phase III clinical trials.

(Source: FDA)

No, the vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna do not use live virus particles that cause Covid-19.  

Side effects may include: injection site pain, tiredness, headache, muscle ache, chills, joint pain, fever, injection site swelling, injection site redness, nausea, feeling unwell, and swollen lymph nodes.

(Source: Mayo Clinic, FDA)

Yes.  Due to the severe health risks associated with Covid-19 and the fact that re-infection with Covid-19 is possible, people may be advised to get a Covid-19 vaccine even if they have been sick with Covid-19 before.

At this time, experts do not know how long someone is protected from getting sick again after recovering from Covid-19.

(Source: CDC)

Both Pfizer and Moderna’s vaccines require two shots to achieve full immunity; 3 weeks apart for Pfizer and 4 weeks apart for Moderna. 

If you miss your second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, please contact your primary care provider to discuss next steps.

(Source: FDA)

We don’t control whether we receive the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine; the states have already selected for us and we will be informed when we receive a clinic date.

No.  The actual vaccine has been purchased by the Federal Government, and the administration of the vaccine is fully covered by Medicare or insurance.

At this time, this is not required by Anthology Senior Living.  Please know that this may be our last opportunity to receive a vaccine until they are available to the general public.  

PharMerica
T.J. Griffin, the Chief Pharmacy Officer at PharMerica and an Advisory Member to Operation Warp Speed has a series of informative videos relating to the Covid-19 vaccine. Topics include: Operation Warp Speed, PharMerica Vaccine Development, Vaccine Review and Approval Authorization,  Vaccine Administration, Vaccine Distribution, Vaccine Clinic Program, Day of Vaccine Clinic