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Vaccine comes to Manor of the Plains for senior living residents, staff

After months of being on the front lines in the battle against COVID-19 Manor of the Plains will begin the process of vaccinating residents and staff on December 28, 2020.

“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 John Van Hook, executive director at Manor of the Plains. “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. Manor of the Plains will receive the Pfizer vaccine in limited doses, which will be given to at-risk residents in health care and assisted living as well as essential health care workers. All those vaccinated on December 28 will need to receive a second dose in 21 days.

Regarding independent living residents, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC’s) Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices has recommended prioritizing people over the age of 75 and essential frontline workers during the initial phase of vaccinations. Those ages 65-74 would be prioritized next, including those 16-64 with high-risk medical conditions. It’s important to note that these are guidelines. Kansas and Missouri will determine vaccine distribution priorities.

John Van Hook, executive director, says staff and residents are eager to receive their first dose.

“I’m thrilled to be able to receive this vaccine,” said Barbara, a resident at the community. “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 Manor of the Plains 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 Lisa, a campus employee. “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), Manor of the Plains 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 Manor of the Plains is being administered by Walgreen’s, who has 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 Manor of the Plains’ response, go to PMMA’s (Presbyterian Manors of Mid-America’s) website, presbyterianmanors.org/media-room.

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