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Students, faculty and staff: Here’s what you need to know about the COVID-19 vaccine

Augusta University Health added a dose of hope to the new year when COVID-19 vaccination clinics opened for employees involved in direct patient care on Dec. 17.

Since then, nearly 6,000 caregivers and clinical support staff in Georgia Department of Public Health’s Phase 1A have received the first dose, with second doses beginning Jan. 7. That total will continue to grow as we receive more shipments, and all who qualify for the vaccine in Phase 1A will be alerted via email about upcoming clinics.

Vaccine availability and qualifying factors will continue to change in the coming months, but we hope to offer the vaccine to university faculty, staff and students as part of Georgia’s Phase 1B. While we understand many on our campus are anxious to receive the vaccine, we are required to follow CDC and Georgia Department of Public Health prioritization guidelines in administering the vaccine. We appreciate your continued patience and understanding as we work with public health officials to prioritize our highest risk populations.

While the vaccine offers hope for a return to normal, it is important that we continue to follow public health guidance and safety precautions by avoiding large gatherings, wearing our masks and washing our hands. Please remain vigilant to ensure not only your health, but also the health of our entire community.

Unfortunately, COVID-19 cases continue to surge in the Augusta region and the number of positive inpatients in our health system remains high. Our campus has consistently shown a dedication to service, and staff and student volunteers can help ease the burden of staffing vaccine clinics by volunteering for the AU Medical Reserve Corps.

We will continue to share updates and information regarding vaccine distribution and campus safety throughout the semester. A virtual town hall with Augusta University leadership is planned for 3 p.m. Jan. 22. Please send your questions in advance to mediarelations@augusta.edu. Updates will also be provided in President Keel’s weekly COVID-19 video update.

While there is a lot of information circulating, Jagwire, leadership communications, and primary Augusta University and Augusta University Health social media accounts should be viewed as the single source of truth regarding vaccine updates for students, faculty and staff.

Find answers to some of your questions regarding the vaccine and its distribution in our vaccine FAQ. Find more resources regarding campus safety here, and keep up with the latest COVID-19 news and statistics here.

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Staff

Augusta University Staff is a collection of talented writers, photographers, students and professionals; all working together to promote and support the amazing impacts and every day wins of Augusta University and the people that make up JagNation.

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Written by Staff

Jagwire is your source for news and stories from Augusta University. Daily updates highlight the many ways students, faculty, staff, researchers and clinicians "bring their A games" in classrooms and clinics on four campuses in Augusta and locations across the state of Georgia.

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