Eighty-four staff members and physicians received their first dose on Friday at the hospital. The rollout of the vaccine has moved from long term care and retirement homes to frontline health care workers in hospitals and other medical facilities.

Registered practical nurse Miranda Carruthers was one of the first staff members to be vaccinated. She said the staff doses would make a difference for both patients and employees at the hospital.

“I was super excited to get my vaccine and I feel extremely thankful,” she said. “By protecting WDMH staff, we can also protect patients and families and our local communities. It’s going to make a huge difference, and everyone will be able to see their loved ones again.”

The hospital developed a prioritization plan for staff based on their level of risk and work location. Staff members working in the emergency department were expected to be vaccinated before those who did not have direct contact with patients.

Hospital CEO Cholly Boland said the doses were an exciting first step. “WDMH staff have been on the front line of this pandemic and this is a great first step,” she said. “We look forward to seeing the entire WDMH team – and our local communities – get their first dose over the coming weeks.”

All safety protocols remained in place at the hospital, including screening, mask mandates, personal protective equipment and visitor restrictions.