Trinitas Medical Center CEO Sets Example, Gets COVID Vaccine

ELIZABETH, NJ — Trinitas Regional Medical Center's CEO was the first at the Union County hospital to receive the coronavirus vaccine Thursday.

"I wouldn't ask anyone to do something that I wouldn’t do," said Trinitas Regional Medical Center President/CEO Gary Horan, who got the vaccine as a way of setting an example.

About 50 frontline staff will also receive the vaccine Thursday, with many more scheduled to be vaccinated in the days ahead.

"I think it's important to set an example," said Horan, referring to those who are hesitant about taking the vaccine. "I think many are waiting to see who else takes it and what side effects there may be, if any. Our medical staff here at Trinitas agrees with the overwhelming body of evidence that shows the vaccine is safe and highly effective in safeguarding the individual, his or her family, and the community at large."

The administration of the vaccine in Union County follows a historic day in New Jersey's fight against the coronavirus. The first of the vaccines were given out on Tuesday.

Maritza Beniquez, a nurse in the emergency room of University Hospital in Newark, was the first person in New Jersey to get a COVID-19 vaccination.

Hackensack University Medical Center staff all received the vaccination on Tuesday.

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