GALLOWAY – Jan. 7, 2020 – Residents and staff at Seashore Gardens Living Center (SGLC) received their first dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine on Thurs., Jan. 7, 2021, as part of the Home’s commitment to protect and care for its vulnerable senior population. CVS Health administered the vaccine to SGLC staff and long-term care residents who qualify for the N.J. Department of Health phased vaccine rollout.
“We have been fortunate in managing the virus thus far, and I credit our dedicated staff who work tirelessly to follow the protocols,” said Alysia Price, Executive Director, SGLC. “The vaccine is an important step in continuing to protect our residents, who have shown tremendous resiliency through this pandemic.
Although the vaccine is not mandatory, we are encouraging all residents and staff to receive it for their protection and that of their coworkers, families, and community.” The Pfizer vaccines were given in a clinic set up specifically for this purpose at SGLC. Staff and residents had to submit a consent form, giving their permission to be vaccinated. In the case of residents, permission had to be obtained from the responsible party. CVS Health will return in 3 weeks to administer the second dose. “The things we’ve been doing so far, the mask wearing, the personal protective equipment, the distancing, the limiting of outside visitors, are all the first line of protection for our residents,” said Alexander Lieberman, M.D., Medical Director at SGLC. “The vaccine is the next step, a way of helping the body to protect itself and fight off any of the virus that may come in contact with the residents and staff.” According to a press release from the FDA, “When a person receives this vaccine, their body produces copies of the spike protein, which does not cause disease, but triggers the immune system to learn to react defensively, producing an immune response against SARS-CoV-2.” “I’ve reviewed the data on safety and efficacy,” said Dr. Lieberman. “I believe the vaccine is safe and effective. I have received it, and I hope that everyone who wants it will be able to get it.” About Seashore Gardens Living Center The Simon & Sylvia Zisman Seashore Gardens Living Center (SGLC) is a nonprofit home for the aged, guided by Jewish tradition, law, and charity, dedicated to enriching the quality of life for its residents. The 125,000 square foot senior Living Center features a continuum of services which include assisted living, short- and long-term nursing care, Alzheimer’s care, respite care and full rehabilitation services all under one roof. For more information, visit www.seashoregardens.org.
