HonorHealth begins vaccinating first responders, healthcare workers
PHOENIX - HonorHealth has become one of the first healthcare providers to vaccinate its workers against the coronavirus.
It began early in the morning and hundreds of our frontline workers, including healthcare workers and first responders -- and they're some of the very first people in the state to receive the COVID-19 vaccine.
HonorHealth officials say the vaccines are very sensitive, so the doses need to be stored at an ultra-low temperature, and then thawed out in a refrigerator once the vaccine will be administered within six hours.
Coronavirus in Arizona: Latest case numbers
HonorHealth and other hospitals have set up COVID-19 vaccination pods throughout the Valley, where they can vaccinate several people at one time.
To get the vaccine, you'll need to sign up in advance with the county, then show up at one of the pod locations. Once you get in line in your car, they'll confirm your identity and your registration. A team of healthcare workers will administer the shot while you're sitting in the driver's seat of your vehicle. Then you're instructed to wait for 15 minutes so the staffers can monitor you for any kind of side effects.
"I'm feeling good.. feel fine.. no pain at all with the injection and no side effects.. feeling good," said a man who received the injection.
MAP: Arizona Coronavirus cases by zip code
Everyone who gets a vaccine at one of these events will have to return in a few weeks to get the second dose.
Health officials expect that the vaccine will be available to the general population starting in Spring 2021.
Online: https://www.honorhealth.com/coronavirus-covid-19
_____
In order to protect yourself from a possible infection, the CDC recommends:
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a cloth face cover when around others
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
- Monitor your health daily
Get the latest coronavirus news by downloading the FOX 10 News App. Our promise is that our alerts are there to inform you - not scare you.
_____
Continuing Coverage:
Featured
COVID-19 vaccine distribution begins in Maricopa County
Maricopa County is set to distribute vaccines in the Valley starting Dec.17. Officials expect to administer 123,000 shots in their first rollout of the vaccine.
Featured
Valley doctors say there's a long COVID-19 battle ahead, not to fear the vaccine
The COVID-19 vaccine isn't to be feared, two Arizona doctors say, explaining that they'll be the first to receive the vaccine and hope to treat patients in thee future who aren't as sick as some are now.
Featured
Gov. Ducey touts COVID-19 vaccine as open hospital beds hit record low
Ducey was joined by AZDHS Director Dr. Cara Christ for a tour of the drive-thru vaccination site that is being operated by Banner Health officials.