CHRISTIANSTED — Nurse practitioners, epidemiologists, registered nurses, and other healthcare staff were among the first Virgin Islanders to receive the much-anticipated Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine on Wednesday.
Minutes after the vaccine shipment was delivered from the Department of Health by the V.I. National Guard, Registered Nurse Hope Bagley delivered the first shot to Dr. Jan Tawakol of Plessen Healthcare in Estate Orange Grove.
On St. Thomas, registered nurse Beranice Wade of the Schneider Regional Medical Center delivered the first shot to the Department of Health’s Medical Director, Dr. Tai Hunte-Ceasar. Hunte-Ceasar, who is known for being an advocate for vaccinations, was ecstatic about being the first to receive the vaccine in the St Thomas/St. John district.
Dr. Tawakol shared what he has witnessed as he saw COVID-19 numbers rise and patients suffer from this dangerous virus.
“By vaccination, I think it’s very important we realize what tool we have in our hands and all of us take that step to stop this virus,” Dr. Tawakol said.
“Worked with him (Dr. Tawakol) for a few years and his wife in Phoenix,” Kevin Kohler said. “Way to go old boy!”
Some 975 doses of the vaccine arrived on St. Croix Wednesday and have allowed providers to start Phase 1A vaccinations in both the St. Croix and St. Thomas/St. John district. This phase includes clinical healthcare staff throughout the territory and residents and staff in long-term care facilities per Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommendations.
As more vaccines are ordered and delivered on a weekly basis, populations in Phases 1B through 1C will begin and will cover first responders, persons with immunocompromised conditions and the 65 and older population. It is expected for the department to roll into subsequent phases on a frequent basis. Additional information about the vaccination phases will be shared with the public in the near future.
The very first vaccinations were livestreamed on Facebook in an effort to show the community healthcare workers are taking the first step to keep this community safe. Health Commissioner Justa Encarnacion said, “Seeing pictures and videos of the first clinical staff receiving the COVID-19 vaccine creates a level of excitement throughout the healthcare community especially knowing that our own Dr. Tai Hunte-Ceasar was one of the first in line to become immunized. The vaccine represents increased immunity against the virus and indeed shines the glimmer of hope that I spoke of–the hope we have been waiting for.”
Even with the arrival of the vaccine, the department urges the community to continue to adhere to guidelines and best practices to reduce the spread of COVID-19 and to remain vigilant. This includes practicing good hand hygiene, maintaining physical distance from persons outside of your household, avoiding non-essential travel, and staying home when sick.
The COVID-19 vaccine is set to be available to the general public in early Spring 2021. Visit covid19usvi.com for updates.
Chrystie Payne wanted to know what the process is for normal people to register for the potentially life-saving shot.
“Amazing! What is the first step for people to get lined up for a vaccine? Contact DOH or our private health care providers?”