Moderna’s COVID-19 vaccine arrives in Pierre; Vaccinations of Tier 1 workers has begun

The first 500 doses of Moderna’s COVID-19 vaccine arrived at Avera St. Mary’s Hospital in Pierre early this morning (Dec. 23) and vaccinations have begun for Tier 1 medical staff.

President and Chief Medical Officer for Avera St. Mary’s Hospital Dr. Mikel Holland says they’ve scheduled several vaccination clinics for staff.

Beth Petersen, Primary Care Director and vaccine coordinator for Avera St. Mary’s Hospital, explains which workers are receiving the vaccine first.

Pharmacy Director for Avera St. Mary’s Hospital Brad Saathoff says Moderna’s coronavirus vaccine is a less complicated to store than the Pfizer vaccine.

Avera St. Mary’s Hospitalist Dr. Phil Meyer says he got vaccinated because he’s convinced of its efficacy and safety.

Holland says Avera is the distributing entity for the COVID-19 vaccines in central South Dakota. He says they are collaborating with Sanford and various long term care facilities to get Tier 1 workers vaccinated as soon as possible.

First Moderna COVID-19 vaccine doses arrive in Pierre.
Photo credit Avera Medical Group Pierre.

Beth Petersen, Primary Care Director for Avera Medical Group in Pierre, prepares to give the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine.
Photo credit Avera Medical Group Pierre.

Beth Petersen, Primary Care Director for Avera Medical Group in Pierre, gives the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine to Dr. Phil Meyer, Internal Physician and Hospitalist for Avera St. Mary’s Hospital.
Photo credit Avera Medical Group Pierre.