DOBBINS AIR RESERVE BASE, Ga. -- Personnel from the 22nd Air Force received their first dose of the COVID-19 vaccination here Friday. Reservists, civilian employees and contractors received the vaccine, which is being distributed using the Department of Defense’s phased approach and administered by medical professionals from the 94th Airlift Wing.
Maj. Gen. John Healy, 22nd AF commander, and Chief Master Sergeant Imelda Johnson, 22nd AF command chief, were among those of the full-time force here who received the vaccine, following medical personnel, first responders, security forces and other prioritized personnel based upon the DOD COVID-19 vaccine distribution and administration plan.
“Protecting our airmen and their families is what this vaccine is all about.” said Healy “We need to continue to get this vaccine in as many arms as quickly as we can to ensure we are always ready.”
While the vaccine is currently voluntary for military members, personnel are highly encouraged to take the vaccine to protect their health, families, community and lower the public health risks associated with the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Preventing the spread of COVID-19 and protecting our service members and their families positively affects our ability to continue our mission,” said Johnson.
Many Reserve Citizen Airmen, including medical and other front-line workers have started receiving their vaccine through civilian channels. Vaccine availability for Reservists is expected to increase in the months ahead.
“All COVID-19 vaccines currently available in the United States have been shown to be safe and highly effective at preventing COVID-19,” said Lt. Col. Jessica Dees, Air Force Reserve Command’s public health officer. “Stopping a pandemic requires all the tools we have available, including receiving the vaccination. Vaccines work with your immune system so it will be ready to fight the virus if you are exposed.”
Reservists who are vaccinated in their civilian capacities should provide documentation to their servicing medial unit to update in Aeromedical Services Information Management System, the Air Force immunization database.
For the most up-to-date information on the vaccine for Reservists, go to https://www.afrc.af.mil/COVID-19/.