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Keep Your Guard Up to Fight COVID-19

By Marcia Burrell-Odeyemi, RN

According to the National Institute of health, vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent SARS-
CoV-2 infection. It is unclear to health officials how long the COVID-19 antibodies last as well as the actu-
al percentage of immunity which is offered from each of the available vaccines for specific persons. Current
research shows that most people who have been fully vaccinated have shown to have less chances of be-
coming severely ill and dying from COVID-19 virus, including the Delta variant. The level of immunity

from the vaccinations may be less for some individuals whose immune systems are not as strong, due to
certain illnesses and or medications.

The most recent CDC recommendation noted that persons 65 years and older as well as individuals who
reside in long-term care facilities should receive a booster shot of Pfizer-BioNTech’s COVID-19 vaccine at
least 6 months after their Pfizer-BioNTech primary series, likewise persons aged 50–64 years with certain
underlying health conditions should receive a booster shot of Pfizer-BioNTech’s COVID-19 vaccine
at least 6 months after their Pfizer-BioNTech original two shots. Vaccination updates about Moderna and
Johnson & Johnson Booster shots are forth coming. Please note that current information pertaining to
COVID-19 vaccination can be found at CDC.gov. EPIC’s nursing and residential teams are preparing to
facilitate a “Covid Booster Clinic” in collaboration with a local pharmacy within the upcoming weeks.
EPIC cares about the health, safety and wellbeing of our people supported and staff. Therefore, it is perti-
nent that team members take proper precautions to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Remember to always
wear proper fitting Surgical Mask, KN95 or other authorized face mask while working. Practice good
household/work area, and hand hygiene, stay away from crowds, and maintain 6 feet social distancing from
others as much as possible. Seek out medical care if you are not feeling well. EPIC's registered nurses are
available to speak with staff who have specific questions regarding COVID-19 vaccines, as well as other
health related subjects.

Marcia Burrell-Odeyemi, RN has been the Director of Nursing Services at EPIC for over 21 years. Prior to becoming
the D.O.N, Marcia proudly served as a Direct Support Professional in EPIC’s residential homes for 5 years. Marcia,
in collaboration with her team of registered nurses, provides premier health management and supportive
healthcare services to promote, protect, and preserve the health and safety of EPIC’s people supported.

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