To All Support, Inc. staff, providers and families,
As we come to the end of 2020, we continue to see progress on the COVID-19 vaccine. The Moderna vaccine received FDA approval for emergency use at the end of last week. The first Moderna vaccines arrived in Colorado on Monday and was distributed to 35 facilities. Colorado is working through Phase 1 of vaccine distribution plan. Phase 1 includes vaccinations for health-care workers and staff at long-term care facilities who have regular exposure to COVID-19. At this time, we have not received any additional guidance regarding when constituents of Support, Inc. may receive the vaccine however, we believe we may be eligible in Phase 2 of Colorado’s distribution plan below. As we receive additional guidance, we will pass this along through email, Facebook and will post the information on our website.
Vaccine FAQ’s:
Q: How does the COVID-19 mRNA vaccine work?
A: The COVID-19 mRNA vaccine gives instructions to cells to make what is called “spike protein”. The spike protein is found on the surface of the virus that causes COVID-19. The vaccine is given in the muscle of the upper arm. Once the instructions (mRNA) are inside the immune cells, the cells use them to make the protein piece.
After the protein piece is made, the cells break down the instructions and get rid of them. Next, the cell displays the protein on its surface. Our bodies recognize that the protein does not belong there and builds an immune response and makes antibodies. 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 that those who get the vaccine are protected without having to risk serious consequences of getting sick with COVID-19.
Q: How long will the vaccine protect me?
A: The duration of protection is currently unknown. Continued research will be done to determine the frequency the vaccine may need to be readministered.
Q: Will either vaccine give me COVID-19?
A: No. Neither vaccine contain SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) and the vaccine cannot give you COVID-19.
Q: What are the differences and similarities between the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines?
As we are coming to the end of 2020, we have hope for 2021 as Colorado begins the implementation of the long awaited COVID-19 vaccine plan. During this holiday season, it is important we all continue to follow infection control practices and limit our contact with people who do not live with us. Limiting our contact does not mean we have to forego seeing friends and family. Zoom is offering free video calls with no time limits. This is a great opportunity to connect with friends and family outside your home. Zoom has removed the 40-minute time limit from 8:00 AM MT on Wednesday December 30th through 4:00 AM MT on Saturday January 2nd.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Laura at Laura.Viers@supportinc.com. Be sure to never miss our correspondences, follow us on Facebook, be sure you are on email and newsletter distribution list and check out website for on-going updated about COVID-19 and other happenings around the organization. Wishing everyone a happy and safe holiday season.-Laura
