Ames Firefighters, Police Receive Coronavirus Vaccinations

Press release from the City of Ames:

February 5, 2021

More than 80 percent of Ames firefighters and police officers recently received COVID-19 vaccinations. Certain City of Ames employees are receiving the vaccine in the early rounds of distribution due to their direct public interaction and duties as emergency medical providers.

“Getting our public safety workers across the country vaccinated represents a huge step forward in containing COVID-19 and reversing the course of the pandemic,” said Ames Fire Chief Rich Higgins. “Being vaccinated offers protection to our employees, and it keeps safe those we serve.”

COVID-19 vaccinations require a second injection 21 to 28 days after the first. The vaccines are estimated to be more than 90 percent effective in reducing coronavirus infection. According to the Centers for Disease Control, the first shot primes the immune system, helping it recognize the virus, and the second shot strengthens the immune response. Vaccines are not currently available to the general population but are being rolled out first to front-line healthcare workers, residents of senior living facilities, and those over 65 years old.

“Until vaccines are widely available, Ames residents should remember to practice the Cyclone Cares four pillars of healthy behavior,” said Ames Interim Police Chief Geoff Huff. “We encourage all citizens to wear a face covering, physically distance, wash your hands frequently, and stay home if you’re ill.”

This press release was produced by the City of Ames. The views expressed here are the author’s own.