Rehoboth McKinley Christian Health Care Services started its Phase 1B COVID distribution campaign Jan.19, after receiving 2,200 doses of the Pfizer vaccine.
Of the allotment, 350 are booster shots for those who had already received the first vaccine.
The availability of the vaccine is a crucial step toward preventing the spread of the novel coronavirus. Studies have shown that the vaccines are safe and approximately 95 percent effective in preventing COVID-19.
“We are very excited to begin administration of the COVID vaccine to the public. With a 95 percent efficacy rate, this is truly a game changer in the pandemic,” Chief Medical Officer, Valory Wangler, M.D. said. “We are thrilled to provide this critical protection for our patients and community as supply and recommendations allow in the coming weeks and months.”
The vaccine may have some minor potential side effects. Some individuals who participated in the trials reported soreness and inflammation at the injection site, much like a regular flu shot. Others developed symptoms that included fever, headache or muscle aches for a day or more.
This phase of the vaccination distribution campaign began at 8 a.m. Jan. 20 and will continue through Jan. 23
Currently eligible for the vaccine are:
All individuals 75 years and older
Individuals 16 years or older with:
- Cancer
- Diabetes
- Kidney disease
- Lung disease
- Heart condition
- Immunocompromised state
- Overweight or Obese
- Pregnancy
- Neurologic condition or stroke
- Down syndrome
- Sickle cell disease or thalassemia
- Hypertension or high blood pressure
- Liver disease
Essential Workers: K-12 educators/staff, grocery store workers, family home care givers, child care workers and others as defined as by the NM Department of Health.
Qualifying individuals can call (505) 488-2684 to make an appointment to receive the vaccine or (505) 863-1820 to schedule a time for the vaccine.
In the case of those receiving their first dose of the Pfizer vaccine, the second dose will be administered three weeks from the first one. While there is no out-of-pocket cost for the vaccine, insurances will be billed an administration fee. When calling for an appointment, please have your insurance information available.
For more detailed information on New Mexico’s Vaccine Allocation Plan you can go to: https://cv.nmhealth.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/2021.1.8-DOH-Phase-Guidance.pdf
