East Orange Retirement Home Gets COVID-19 Vaccines

EAST ORANGE, NJ — Seniors at a retirement community in East Orange recently got a chance to get a COVID-19 vaccine as New Jersey continues to expand its list of eligible candidates.

Earlier this week, United Methodist Communities at Bishop Taylor, a senior retirement community in East Orange, announced that some of its residents and associates received their first of two required shots.

• See related article: NJ Expands COVID Vaccine To 65 & Older, Those With Medical Issues

The vaccines were administered by staff from Walgreens Pharmacy, who gave out the Pfizer vaccines in the building’s community room.

Residents, staff and caregivers will be able to get their second, follow-up shots on Jan. 31.

“We’re pleased that New Jersey has made the right decision and included older adults in congregate living as a top priority for vaccination in our state,” housing administrator Tanya Preston said.

“While the vaccine is not a panacea, it is an important step towards making our community healthy and safe,” Preston said. “After 10 long months, our senior community is pleased to add this important tool to our strategy and aim for a vaccination rate of 70 percent. The vaccine brings hope and improves our health and safety.”

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