After weeks of preparation, Gundersen Health System will receive its first allocation of COVID-19 vaccine this afternoon (Dec. 21) at its La Crosse headquarters.
Staff at greatest risk of virus exposure will begin receiving the COVID-19 vaccine first at about noon Dec. 22 to protect vulnerable patients, each other and community members. This group includes, but is not limited to: COVID unit staff; Emergency Room clinicians, nurses and technicians; long-term care staff; and Hospital housekeeping staff.
As the first round of vaccinations begin, it is extremely important everyone continue to follow COVID-19 health and safety measures to limit the spread of the virus: wear a mask; maintain physical distancing and avoid large gatherings; wash your hands regularly; and stay home if you're sick.
Like all other healthcare systems, Gundersen remains at the mercy of production and distribution of the vaccine - the most important, complex public health effort in our nation's history. Gundersen expects to receive more doses soon, especially as additional vaccine receives FDA approval.
The vaccine may not be available to everyone for several months. In the meantime, Gundersen patients can prepare for vaccination by downloading the MyChart app or visiting MyChart so that they're ready to schedule the vaccination when it's available.
For more COVID-19 vaccine information and answers to common questions, visit gunderesenhealth.org/covid-19.