The vaccine is rolling out and so far so good.  Follow the link on the front page for detailed operational plans. 

People keep asking if they should get the vaccine and questioning it based on bits and pieces of information floating around the internet.  My answer is YES, and based on the complete picture of risks and benefits.  I am confident enought that I just received my first dose through the hospital.  I got the Pfizer vaccine, but either would have been most welcome.   That’s me getting the shot, and the vaccine being drawn up ( yes, the syringe looks empty I took the picture too quickly but assure you it was drawn up)  Hopefully soon we get access to the vaccine to provide for staff and patients. 

We’ve applied for the vaccine, the only one we can store in both freezer and refrigerator is the Moderna vaccine, at least so far.  Not many places can store the Pfizer vaccine. We have certified and calibrated our cold storage to verify it keeps the proper temperature and have alarms set to prompt quick action should there be a power failure or accident. Now we wait to hear from the state that has been collecting all the information. 

There is a rather complicated order for vaccine distribution, the link will be updated on the front page but a copy is here.  The distribution plans start under section 3 on page 11.  I was reassured that the distribution would pick up more quickly with the approval of the 2nd vaccine. 

Once vaccinated you will recieve a small vaccination card for proof and to track getting both doses.   I’m sure this may help with future travels but that’s not perfectly clear yet. 

Frequently asked questions:

Does the vaccine work immediately?  No, it takes 7 to10 days but the first shot is about 50% protection, after the 2nd shot it is 94-95% which is impressive.  

How long will the vaccine work? No one knows since it has not been around for even a year yet, but looks good so far. 

If I had COVID already, should I get the vaccine?  YES. 

Should my relative that doesn’t believe in COVID get vaccinated?  YES.  Even politicians that ignored guidelines are rushing to vaccinate themselves, though not sure why they qualify so soon. 

Will I have to wear a mask after the vaccine? Yes, you can still spread virus if you have immunity, not as much but definitely possible.  Once enough people are vaccinated the masks will start to fade away but if you get sick you should still wear one to protect others. 

Is it safe to gather with friends and family for the holidays? No. The relaxed attitude toward COVID has created a medical nightmare, and Tennessee hospitals are near capacity already. 

Should wearing masks be mandated?  Yes.  It’s not difficult, much like seat belts are mandatory.  Wearing clothes in public is mandatory.  If we are going to act like it cannot be mandated and that suggestions should be enough, then let’s start with making taxes a suggestion and drop the legal mandate on that first.  Sounds fair. 

Where do we see the most transmissions of COVID?  Church services, Indoor restaurants, gathering with friends or family especially over holidays, and kids bringing it home and infecting family members. 

Are there treatments for acute COVID if at high risk?  Yes, not clear how effective it is, but bamlanivimab infusion is available now through some hospitals and may reduce risk of covid complications for those at the highest risk. There are other treatments circulating but they are based on poor or no science and feelings.  For instance some have said they treated 100 patients with hydroxychloroquine and none died.  I can show 100 patients treated with rest and fluids and supportive care and none died, and none of our 100 had medication complications from the drug.  The bamlanivimab may have some potential, it is a monoclonal antibody that aids your immune system and it’s just now becoming available for select patients at very high risk. 

More updates to follow…