Hoboken police officers and firefighters began receiving their COVID-19 vaccinations late last week as the state has begun moving on to stage 1B personnel, with Mayor Ravi Bhalla urging the general public to follow suit when it’s their turn.
By John Heinis/Hudson County View
Approximately 120 first responders and law enforcement personnel were vaccinated through the Riverside Medical Group today, while additional vaccinations were provided by Hoboken University Medical Center since Thursday.
Hoboken Police Chief Kenneth Ferrante received the vaccine from Riverside this morning, while Fire Chief Brian Crimmins received the vaccine via the Hoboken University Medical Center on Friday.
“I looked forward to this day to get my vaccination because it shows our officers and I have confidence in this vaccine, and it’s a step in the direction of protecting our community,” Ferrante said in a statement.
“I have done my personal research reading articles from top medical experts in our country regarding side effects, levels of protection created and allergic reactions as I am one who is allergic to several medications. The vast majority of medical experts have stated that the vaccine is safe and effective. I am confident sitting here today and getting this shot.”
“ … As fire chief, I proudly volunteered for vaccination because I feel that it’s important to protect myself, my department, my family, and my community from COVID-19,” added Crimmins.
“Based on communication with medical professionals, industry experts, and other fire chiefs, I believe the vaccine to be safe and effective. Two days after receiving my first dosage, I’m pleased to report that I haven’t experienced any side effects or reactions.”
The 1B phase also includes food service workers, educators, support staff and daycare workers, as well as public transit workers, according to a plan released by the New Jersey Department of Health last month.
“I encourage all residents to follow the lead of our courageous first responders and get the COVID-19 vaccine when it becomes available,” stressed Bhalla.
“The vaccine has been proven to be safe and effective, and will help our community get back to normal once distributed widely. I thank the medical staff at Riverside and Hoboken University Medical Center for working quickly with the City to administer the vaccine to our emergency personnel over the past several days.”
RMG has administered approximately 10,000 doses of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine at their offices in New Jersey since the start of the vaccination period, the mayor’s office said today.
