Senator Vitale, Health Officials In Roundtable Discussion On COVID-19 Vaccine Program

TRENTON – Senator Joe Vitale participated Thursday in a timely roundtable discussion with State Health Commissioner Judith Persichilli and former Deputy Commissioner and State Epidemiologist Dr. Eddy Bresnitz, where questions were asked and answered concerning the rollout of New Jersey’s COVID-19 vaccine program, and the continuing protocols and procedures in place going forward, as state residents begin to see the program accelerate in coming weeks.

Questions ranged from basic questions about the vaccine itself, such as what it is and where it is manufactured to more practical discussions such as how long after the second dose does it confer immunity, what exactly it means to be “immune,” and whether people still have to wear a mask once they are inoculated.

The roundtable program also featured discussion having to do with the various phases in the timeline of those eligible to receive the vaccine — from phases 1A, 1B, 1C and 2 – and how those persons might go about signing up to receive it.

“While most New Jerseyans are no doubt aware that the COVID-19 vaccine program has been started in our state, very many residents still need to be educated on how exactly the program works – who is eligible to receive it, and when, and how – as well as the overall timeframe involved, not to mention more practical questions, such as when and where they can actually get the vaccination,” said Senator Vitale (D-Middlesex), who is Chair of the Senate Health, Human Services and Senior Citizens Committee. “Hopefully this roundtable discussion with our top state health care professionals will provide many of the answers they need.”