First Round of Vaccines Distributed At Edmonson Center To Residents, Workers

Edmonson Center resident Larry Basham receives a COVID vaccination. (courtesy Genesis Healthcare)

Edmonson Voice Staff Report: photos courtesy of Genesis Healthcare
Genesis Healthcare, Edmonson Center in Brownsville received COVID vaccinations at their facility today for their residents and workers.

In a released statement, ​Dr. Richard Feifer, Chief Medical Officer of Genesis Healthcare, said that today's measure will help prevent further tragedies, especially in the vulnerable population.

"We are happy to report that Edmonson Center completed its first vaccination clinic on December 30, 2020, with CVS, our chosen partner through the Pharmacy Partnership for Long Term Care program," he said. "CVS will return three weeks later to administer the second booster shots for those who received the vaccine in round one and will also vaccinate anyone not included in round one. They will then return for a third time, three weeks after round two, to administer the final booster shots."

​Dr. Feifer said Genesis has a goal of vaccinating 100% of the staff without an attempt to impose a requirement. Through what he called a "robust communication and education initiative," they are encouraging vaccination among staff, residents, and families. 

"We are confident that the vaccine development and clinical trial process has been rigorous, and that the FDA will approve only the candidates that merit it," he added. 

"All drugs or vaccines have some potential side effects, and it is important to monitor for such issues even after a drug or vaccine is approved. As the largest nursing home operator, we’re prepared to assist," Dr. Feifer said. "Genesis is participating in a newly developed safety monitoring program with Brown University School of Public Health researchers, to monitor for any potential adverse health impacts after nursing home residents in our affiliated centers receive COVID-19 vaccinations. This work is part of a CDC effort to carefully monitor vaccine safety, particularly focused on frail elderly residents who were not included in vaccine trials."

The center said that all able residents received the first round of the vaccine today.