Seeing grandchildren and great-grandchildren, traveling, getting out of the house and getting back to normal. These are the things Wisconsin residents age 65 and older are looking forward to as they begin to receive their COVID-19 vaccinations.
Many older adults have been isolated from loved ones during the coronavirus pandemic.
Phil Ristow, of Jefferson, called it “COVID jail.” He was one of the more than 300 Jefferson County residents who received the first dose of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine Tuesday after those 65 and older became eligible Monday.
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Ristow said he’s looking forward to seeing his two children and two grandchildren, some of whom live in California.
“We do a lot of FaceTime. It’s all you can do,” he said.
As he received his vaccination, Ristow made sure to note he was smiling, even though his expression was hidden by his mask.
The Jefferson County vaccine clinic has the help of 22 volunteers, who Elizabeth Chilsen, the public health program manager for the county, said keep the operation running.
When people enter the clinic, they’re screened for COVID-19 symptoms and receive consent forms to fill out. Next, they have the opportunity to ask questions about the vaccine and its potential side effects. After receiving the vaccine, people must stay in an observation area for 15 minutes before leaving.
The Pfizer vaccine requires two doses administered three weeks apart. After that, the vaccine is 95 percent effective at fighting COVID-19.
Jefferson County COVID-19 Public Information Officer Samroz Jakvani recommends everyone, including those who receive vaccinations, continue efforts to stop the spread of COVID-19. “This includes wearing masks, washing hands frequently, avoiding gatherings, and maintaining physical distance from others.”
Katy Roedl, of Lake Mills, was able to get vaccinated alongside Larry Roedl, her husband of 53 years. The two said they were “grateful” to be able to receive the vaccine.
“Traveling, going out with friends, having our family over … it’s just been awful not being together,” Katy said.
“We’re just getting sick of being home,” Larry said.
Encouragement from their kids brought Sharon and Richard Chesmore, of Whitewater, to the clinic to receive their vaccines, as well as a desire to get out of the house.
“We’ve been pretty well cooped up,” Sharon said.
They’re looking forward to seeing their four grandchildren and two great-grandchildren after finishing the vaccination process.
Summing up her feelings after receiving her vaccine, Jon Ingle, of Palmyra, said simply, “relief.”
She misses her friends, who are not yet vaccinated but are trying to get scheduled for a shot as soon as possible.
“I want life to get back to somewhat normal and I feel that the vaccine will help me be able to do that,” she said.
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