On Saturday, in the Delaware Valley, there was a push to get those who need it most, starting with veterans.
At Philadelphia Medical Center in Philadelphia, veterans age 75 and older and those with chronic illnesses rolled up their sleeves to get the COVID-19 vaccine.
Marine Corps veteran Ed Murray says he was initially afraid of the shot, but realized the benefits far outweighed the risks.
“I think it’s extremely important if you want to protect yourself, protect your community, and protect your family,” Murray said.
VA officials are in the midst of campaigning to vaccinate as many veterans as possible.
“We are very fortunate here at the VA to be able to offer a large-scale vaccine for our veteran population that tends to be a poorly served and really vulnerable population,” said Matt Garin, deputy director of patient safety and quality cabinet at the Philadelphia VA Medical Center.
In Delaware, part of the launch includes getting more healthcare workers to administer the doses.
Three dentists were trained and vaccinated 150 people on Saturday.
“To help everyone, I think that’s really what it’s all about,” said Dr. Erik Bradley of Delaware Dental Associates. “It’s about getting back as far as we can and helping the state and the nation get back on track.”
Chester, Delaware, Montgomery and Philadelphia counties have websites that allow you to pre-register and show interest in getting the vaccine.
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