One and done: Johnson & Johnson vaccines arrive
Posted on Mar 30, 2021 in Capitol Connection, Featured, Main
A happy Angel Ramos after his vaccination.
Graphic provided by: Dept. of Health
The shaka from Kalākaua Middle School vice principal Angel Ramos said it all. He was the first among several hundred Department of Education employees who registered for the initial round of Johnson and Johnson COVID-19 vaccine March 5 at the Windward Comprehensive Health Center. “The invitation had links for people to sign up for this clinic today or for a Moderna clinic here next week,” said Dr. Amy Curtis, DOH adult mental health division administrator. “We had almost 500 people sign up for Johnson & Johnson in a day and a half. We’re glad there is so much interest.”
Ramos said of his decision, “I watched (Dr. Anthony Fauci) on TV. He said that all three (Johnson & Johnson, Moderna and Pfizer vaccines) are good. So I didn’t hesitate to take it.” Johnson & Johnson vaccines have been shipped to O‘ahu, Hawai‘i, Maui and Kaua‘i. Shots will be administered at points of dispensing run by the state’s district health offices and by various hospitals. DOH will announce additional details soon about where and when the vaccine will be available.
VACCINATIONS FOR PHASE 1C UNDER WAY—With more vaccine shipments on the way, the state Department of Health has started vaccinating Hawai‘i residents age 60 and older as well as people in Phase 1c, which includes those with high-risk medical conditions (ages 16 to 64) and essential workers not already vaccinated. Health Director Dr. Libby Char said, “This is another huge step in our effort to protect Hawai‘i residents from COVID-19. There are about half a million people in Phase 1c, so it’s going to take us a while to get to everyone, but we’re well on our way.” To stay updated on the registration for appointments, go to https://hawaiicovid19.com/vaccination-registration/. Also, O‘ahu kūpuna can now call 2-1-1 daily from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. for help with appointments and transportation.