SAFD Begins Receiving The Coronavirus Vaccine

Press release from the City of San Antonio:

December 21, 2020

CONTACT: firepio@sanantonio.gov

SAN ANTONIO (December 21, 2020) – Early this morning, the first group of SAFD EMS personnel rolled up their sleeves for the COVID-19 vaccine. The SAFD would like to thank UT Health, University Hospital and Christus Hospital System for this initial allotment (Pfizer vaccine).

“What a wonderful and exciting day this is”, says Chief Charles Hood. “Our personnel have been battling stress and fatigue as they continue the lifesaving work caring for the residents of San Antonio. Even with all our precautions, one of the biggest stressors is the fear they may take COVID-19 home to their families. I would like to thank STRAC for their coordination on these critical first doses. My hope is that this vaccine will provide comfort and a sense of security for our department; they have all played such a crucial role during this pandemic. “

SAFD will offer the vaccine to approximately 400 EMS workers first, and then it will be available to our 1300 plus Fire Fighters as well. Vaccinations will be ongoing and continue throughout the Holidays.

B-roll is available:

• EMS vaccine (go to 2:09) for first SAFD member to be vaccinated
• Andrea Vega EMS interview
• Elliot Mandell Senior VP & Chief Pharmacy Officer University Health System

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