HONOLULU – Today, The Queen’s Medical Center received its first shipment of the COVID-19 vaccine from Pfizer. Queen’s received the delivery just before 8:00 a.m. Our pharmacy team verified and inspected the contents of the thermo-insulated container containing dry ice and 975 doses of the vaccine. The vaccine was transferred into one of our two ultra-cold freezers for storage.
Priority for the vaccine will be given to those with direct patient care of COVID patients, and those caring for at-risk populations. Vaccinations are expected to begin tomorrow with additional shipments of the vaccine expected in the coming weeks. The vaccine will not be mandatory for any employee.
“This is indeed a momentous day. We have been looking forward to this day for a long time,” said Dr. Jill Hoggard Green, PhD, RN, President & Chief Executive Officer, The Queen’s Health Systems. “This vaccine will give us another layer of protection against this devastating disease. It is important for all of us to remember that as vaccinations get underway, we still need to be vigilant about wearing our masks, practicing physical distancing, and washing our hands. We want to thank our city, state, and federal partners who have been at the forefront with us in the fight against COVID-19.”
“We are very excited to receive this first shipment of the vaccine. Over the last few months we have been working on processes and procedures for receiving, storing, and administering the vaccine safely. We will continue to work to acquire additional shipments of the vaccine,” said Jason Chang, Chief Operating Officer, The Queen’s Health Systems, and President, The Queen’s Medical Center.
Queen’s has also set up a website https://www.queens.org/covid19/covid-19-vaccination-information with the latest information about the vaccine, including helpful FAQs and resources. Our COVID-19 Infoline (808-691-2619) is also a resource for those looking for information about the vaccine. It is available Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday 8:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
