INVERNESS, Fla. – Citrus Memorial Hospital has received its first shipment of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine and has begun vaccinating caregivers deemed the highest risk. The Moderna vaccine received the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) emergency use authorization (EUA) on Friday, December 18, and is the second vaccine to receive this approval.
“We are excited to be able to provide this vaccine now as positive COVID-19 cases continue to increase in the community,” said CEO Ginger Carroll. “The safety of our caregivers has remained first and foremost throughout the pandemic and I am truly thankful for their dedication to compassionate care throughout this challenging year.”
The vaccine is being distributed initially to hospital staff based on a tiering structure of COVID-19 exposure risk and is optional for all. As additional supplies of the vaccine are received, the tiering process will continue until all hospital caregivers who want the vaccine receive it.
“The ability to provide our caregivers who are at the highest risk the protection this COVID-19 vaccine provides is such a gift this holiday season,” said Chief Medical Officer Dr. Raylene Platel. “Of course, we must all still remain vigilant about masking, social distancing, and handwashing.”
The Moderna vaccine can be stored in standard hospital refrigeration systems and can be shipped directly to hospitals. Like the Pfizer BioNTech vaccine, it also requires two doses to provide the best protection against COVID-19.
For more information, visit CitrusMH.com and click on the Vaccine Information tab in the COVID-19 Response Center