Mahsi’ choo to those of you who got your COVID-19 vaccination. You are helping us bring hope to all of our people for an end to the pandemic and a return to normal life.
Since late December, Team TCC has administered more than 16,000 first and second vaccination doses in Fairbanks and in the 26 rural Alaska communities where TCC provides healthcare. While about half of eligible Chief Andrew Isaac Health Center patients are fully vaccinated, more of us need to be vaccinated.
The COVID-19 vaccination is our most important tool in stopping this pandemic so that our lives can return to normal. Getting vaccinated protects you, your loved ones and our community. If you or your family members haven’t been vaccinated, now is time to schedule your vaccination appointment.
COVID-19 vaccinations are now available to everyone ages 12 and up. Clinical studies found the Pfizer vaccine to be as safe and effective for kids 12 through 15 as it is for adults. Kids need to get both shots for the vaccination to protect them from COVID-19.
The CDC no longer recommends avoiding other vaccines before or after your COVID-19 vaccination, so there is no need to delay your COVID-19 vaccination or any other vaccinations. In May, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) issued new recommendations that stated vaccinated individuals do not have to wear masks indoors and outdoors. The exceptions are for healthcare organizations like Tanana Chiefs health care clinics and public transportation such as planes, buses, and trains.
TCC has NOT changed its policy on masking and social distancing. TCC is still requiring that all employees and visitors wear a mask and abide by social distancing recommendations at all of our locations.
TCC’s healthcare providers want you to understand that it is necessary and important to continue wearing a mask and continue social distancing while in public, because not enough Alaskans are vaccinated. If you are fully vaccinated you can safely gather with other people who you know are fully vaccinated. Other things you can do to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 include washing your hands with soap and water and staying home when you don’t feel well and getting tested for COVID-19 if you have symptoms, even if you are vaccinated. Remember to frequently clean and disinfect surfaces like phones, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets, and sinks.
Science has shown that the COVID-19 vaccines are effective at preventing severe illness which should keep you from needing treatment or needing to be hospitalized.
There are some cases that vaccinated individuals do become infected with COVID 19 but these individuals typically have only very mild illness and do not need to be hospitalized. Therefore, it is vital that everyone continue to follow masking and social distancing guidelines for the remainder of the pandemic.
Thank you for choosing to be vaccinated and doing your part to keep our community safe and healthy.
By Dr. Alisa Alexander, Senior Medical Officer