COVID-19 Vaccine comes to Newton Presbyterian Manor

After months of being on the front lines in the battle against COVID-19 Newton Presbyterian Manor has completed the first two rounds of resident and staff vaccinations for the disease.  With first doses given Jan. 12, and the second on Feb. 2, a third clinic is scheduled for those few who had their first dose in February.

“There’s no doubt the senior population has been hit hard by the virus, along with the health care workers who’ve treated them,” said Marc Kessinger, executive director. “We couldn’t be happier to know there’s finally a bit of light at the end of such a difficult year.”

The vaccine clinic was made possible through the Pharmacy Partnership for Long-Term Care Program. Newton Presbyterian Manor received the Pfizer vaccine.

Harold Reid is Newton Presbyterian Manor’s oldest resident, turning 100 this month.  He was also the first to receive the vaccine.  

“I’m thrilled to be able to receive this vaccine,” said Reid. “It’s encouraging to know there’s much to look forward to after a year of challenges. I can’t say enough about the incredible staff here at Newton Presbyterian Manor and how they’ve handled the past year with professionalism and dedication.”

“Knowing that I’ll be able to do my job and provide residents with the peace of mind that I’m protected from the virus is the best possible news,” said Emily Trask, Director of Human Resources. “I can’t say enough about how the community has supported all of us through everything we’ve faced this year.”

While side effects related to the vaccine are rare according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Newton Presbyterian Manor will closely monitor those who receive vaccinations. Potential side effects include injection site pain, fatigue, headache, muscle pain, chills, joint pain and fever.

The vaccine being distributed at Newton Presbyterian Manor is being administered by Walgreen’s, who partnered with Pfizer and the federal government to ensure safe distribution to at-risk populations during the first round of inoculations through the Pharmacy Partnership for Long-Term Care Program.

While vaccinations will lower the risk of transmission throughout the community, precautions remain in place.

All employees are encouraged to follow CDC guidelines and best practices as these are continually updated. We have been screening individuals as they enter the community building for a shift and before individuals have any direct contact with residents.  All staff are educated to stay at home if they are experiencing symptoms of a respiratory illness or not feeling well. Employee surveillance testing will continue as required by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) based on county positivity rates for COVID-19 testing.

For more information about Newton Presbyterian Manor’s response, go to PMMA’s (Presbyterian Manors of Mid-America’s) website, PresbyterianManors.org/media-room.

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