SSM Health Good Samaritan Hospital - Mt. Vernon issued the following announcement on Apr. 15.
Due to CDC and FDA recommendations, SSM Health will pause the use of Johnson & Johnson vaccine until there is further guidance. We continue to encourage patients and the public to schedule an appointment for vaccination using Pfizer and Moderna vaccine. For more information, please visit our Johnson & Johnson vaccine FAQ and the CDC’s website.
At SSM Health, we are eager to protect our communities by getting everyone vaccinated against COVID-19. Starting Monday April 5, several of our regions will be expanding vaccine scheduling.
COVID-19 Vaccine Online Scheduling Available. Schedule yours now.
Please use the links below to find the latest updates on vaccine distribution in your community:
Q: Are the COVID-19 Vaccines free? How much will they cost?A: Patients will not be charged for the COVID-19 vaccine. The patient’s insurance company will be charged a vaccine administration fee. Insurance companies are required to pay 100% without any cost-share/copay to the patient. For patients without insurance, there is no charge. Please provide your insurance card during registration so that we may bill your insurance.
Q: What can I do to stay healthy until the vaccine is available?
A: It is critical that everyone takes steps to stay healthy and prevent the spread of COVID-19. We understand the holidays are an important time for family and friends, but local hospitals are already strained caring for significant numbers of COVID-19 patients. To help prevent the spread and reduce the pressure on hospitals:
- Don't gather in the presence of those outside your immediate household. If you must, wear a mask and stay at least six feet apart.
- Wear a mask when in public, even in outdoor locations.
- Wash your hands frequently for at least 20 seconds, scrubbing thoroughly and rinsing completely.
- If you have symptoms, stay home..
A: Phase 3 clinical trial data demonstrated that patients in the treatment arm were 90 percent less likely to develop COVID-19 infection than those in the placebo arm. While no vaccine is 100 percent effective in preventing infection, results from the Pfizer and Moderna vaccine trials are very encouraging and better than expected.
Q: I have an allergy to shellfish and have had anaphylactic reactions in the past. How do I prevent an anaphylactic reaction? Do I need to take something like prednisone or Benadryl prior to receiving the vaccine?
A: There is no recommendation for prophylactic medications prior to the vaccine. In addition, there is no contraindication to receiving the COVID vaccine in the setting of shellfish or prior anaphylactic reactions except for those with allergies to any of the vaccine components or for those who have a history of an allergic reaction to a previous COVID vaccine. Those who fall into the latter two categories require an evaluation with an allergist/immunologist prior to scheduling their second dose.
Original source can be found here.
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