Showing posts with label Covid Vaccine. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Covid Vaccine. Show all posts

Thursday, September 21, 2023

Covid Surging Now In NYC Area, RIOC Strongly Encourages Roosevelt Island Resident To Wear Masks In Crowded Indoor Spaces And Get The New Vaccine

According to the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) today:

Dear Roosevelt Island Community Members,

We hope this message finds you in good health and high spirits. As responsible and caring members of our community, we must come together once again to address a concerning matter - the recent surge in COVID-19 cases in our area.

The safety and well-being of our community have always been our top priority. Over the past year and beyond, we've shown tremendous resilience and unity in the face of the pandemic. Let's continue to work together to protect ourselves, our loved ones, and our neighbors.

The Current Situation:

In recent weeks, the number of COVID-19 cases in our area has been on the rise. This is a stark reminder that the virus is still very much a part of our lives. We must remain vigilant in our efforts to limit the spread of the virus.

Strongly Encouraging Mask Usage:

To safeguard the health of our community, we strongly encourage all residents, visitors, and workers on Roosevelt Island to wear masks when in public indoor spaces, particularly in places where social distancing may be challenging. This simple but effective measure can significantly reduce the risk of transmission.

Let's Protect Ourselves and Our Community:

We understand that we are all fatigued by the prolonged pandemic, but our collective actions make a difference. By wearing masks, we not only protect ourselves but also demonstrate our commitment to the well-being of those around us. Let's set an example for one another and be a community that cares deeply about the health of every member.

Additional Safety Measures:

In addition to mask usage, please continue to follow other recommended safety guidelines, including regular handwashing, practicing social distancing, and getting vaccinated if you are eligible and haven't done so already. These actions, when combined, form a robust defense against the virus.

Stay Informed:

Stay updated on the latest developments regarding COVID-19 in our community by following guidance from reputable health organizations such as the New York State Department of Health. We will also provide regular updates and resources to keep you informed.

Our Roosevelt Island community has shown incredible resilience and support throughout this challenging time. By once again coming together and taking these precautions seriously, we can limit the spread of COVID-19, protect our most vulnerable members, and work towards a safer and healthier future for all.

Thank you for your continued commitment to the well-being of our community. Let's keep Roosevelt Island safe, strong, and united.

In good health,

-Team RIOC

A long time Roosevelt Island resident asks:

How about on Red Buses, AND especially IN THE TRAM CABINS, & ON THE TRAM PLATFORMS — Lots of signage & better crowd control ...

By ROOSEVELT ISLANDER at 8:34:00 PM 0 comments

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Thursday, April 21, 2022

Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney And Governor Kathy Hochul Unveil Astoria Houses Repurposed Shipping Containers Covid Testing And Vaccination Medical Unit Designed By NJIT & Tuchman Foundation - Can Roosevelt Island Get One Too?

Last Thursday April 14, a mere eight minute East River Ferry ride from Roosevelt Island, NY State Governor Kathy Hochul, Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney and businessman/philanthropist Martin Tuchman announced the opening of a new temporary medical care unit at Astoria Houses to provide free COVID-19 vaccines and tests.

The temporary medical care unit is made from 40-foot-long repurposed shipping containers and was designed by a research and development consortium composed of the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT) and The Tuchman Foundation. Congresswoman Maloney worked with the NJIT, the City and State of New York, New York City Housing Authority, the Tuchman Foundation, and The Floating Hospital to secure the unit for placement at Astoria Houses. 

The unit will be operated by the Floating Hospital, a NYC-based charity hospital that provides healthcare services to anyone in need. The site will be open on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 am to 5 pm.

Congresswoman Maloney said at the opening of the new Astoria Houses Covid Testing and Vaccination facility:
Quality healthcare should be a fundamental human right. 

Of all the inequities in life, not having access to life-saving health care may be the greatest. We all need to commit ourselves fully to ending that as we are doing today with this very innovative health unit.  

I, we've worked so hard to get this medical care unit here in Astoria. It will be providing tests,  vaccinations and boosters to all residents in the area. Before today, there was only one permanent vaccination site within half a mile of Astoria houses and just two permanent ones in our zip code. It was just too hard for the residents.  You'd have to walk literally a mile to go to the testing site or the vaccination site...
According to Governor Hochul:
... I just had a chance to tour this. You think about shipping containers that have gone around the world, have seen everything. And now, this is their home. Three of them put together. It's ingenious, to be able to bring this facility right here because you open those doors. It's not just to a place, it's a place of opportunity, and a healthier living. And so, we're going to do tests here. We're going to do vaccinations here. We're going to get the job done....

And I want to thank Mr. Tuchman for his generosity and bringing this to us.
Martin Tuchman added:
....I'm proud of  the way our various teams working together to make this a successful installation. 

It  took every bit of our engineering training, mechanical, electrical, civil and school of architecture to make this happen.  At NJIT, the school of management proved once again,  that one can have all the technical know-how to create something but you need an efficient management team to pull it all together. That's a perfect example.

In closing, I want to dedicate this facility in memory of my good friend and business colleague Cliff Maloney who founded this company with me over 40 years ago where we were pioneers in the international shipping industry.

There are currently 25 million of these containers throughout the world. I very much appreciate you allowing me to install a few of them on your property.

I asked Congresswoman Maloney how to get a similar Covid testing/vaccination facility for Roosevelt Island. Ms Maloney answered that the community has to ask for it, find a suitable location and then fight with her to get it done.

Roosevelt Island Residents Association (RIRA) President Rossana Ceruzzi, who was able to obtain a Covid Test Site for several weeks earlier this year, said she thinks the shipping container Covid test/vaccination unit is a very good idea and RIRA will explore trying to secure a similar facility for Roosevelt Island with the help of Congresswoman Maloney.

Watch the full presentation at Astoria Houses including remarks from residents and representatives of the Floating Hospital

Unfortunately, on April 19 after taking a home test and confirmed by a lab PCR Test, Ms Maloney tested positive for Covid 19.  According to Ms Maloney:

I am in good spirits, just feeling a bit like I have a bad cold. But I'm also feeling grateful that testing is now easily and widely available, so I won't unknowingly spread the virus to friends and family. And I am especially grateful that I have had my COVID vaccine shots and my Boosters. I hate to contemplate what I might be facing were that not the case. We're all in a much better place than we were 2 years ago at this time. Per CDC guidance and the advice of the Attending Physician of the Capitol, I am quarantining at home in New York City. Maybe I'll use the time to read some banned books.
  Here's more on the NJIT shipping container medical units.  

Hopefully, Congresswoman Maloney 

and Governor Hochul 

can help residents bring a shipping container Covid Testing/Vaccination medical unit to Roosevelt Island. 

By ROOSEVELT ISLANDER at 8:10:00 PM 0 comments

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Monday, February 28, 2022

71% Of Roosevelt Island PS/IS 217 Students Received Full Covid 19 Vaccine, 76% Have First Dose, NYC Mayor Adams Says School Mask Mandate Ends March 7 If Numbers Show Low Level Of Risk

According to Chalkbeat and The City: 

Just over half of New York City public school students are fully vaccinated, according to data the education department released Friday. In total, 59% of the city’s public school students have received at least one vaccine dose and nearly 52% are considered fully vaccinated....

The NYC Department of Education (DOE) reports that the vaccination rate for Roosevelt Island PS/IS 217 school

is 76.8% with a first dose and 71.2% fully vaccinated.

The NYC DOE PS/IS 217 Covid 19 report card is here.

According to NYC Health Department 10,969 (93.98%) Roosevelt Island residents have received at least one Covid 19 vaccine dose and 9,753 (83.56%) residents are full vaccinated.

By ROOSEVELT ISLANDER at 4:54:00 PM 0 comments

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Monday, January 10, 2022

NY State Assembly Member Rebecca Seawright Offering Roosevelt Island Moderna Covid 19 Booster Shot Clinic Thursday January 13, Call To Make Appointment - Latest Covid Testing, Vaccination And Hospitalization Statistics Available Too

Roosevelt Island and Upper East Side NY State Assembly Member Rebecca Seawright reports:

Assembly Member Rebecca Seawright will offer the seventh in a series of vaccine clinics for constituents this Thursday, January 13, on Roosevelt Island. 

Appointments for the COVID-19 Moderna Booster are available by calling the Assembly Member’s district office at 212-288-4607. In-home appointments are also available upon request for homebound residents. 

The service is supported by the New York City Vaccine Command with booster shots administered by Zeel, a health care provider. 

The Carter Burden Senior Citizen Center is hosting the event. 

What: Assembly Member Seawright Moderna Booster Clinic 

When: 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM 

 Where: Carter Burden Senior Center 546 Main St., Roosevelt Island, N.Y. 

Contact: 212-288-4607 to schedule appointment

I spoke with Ms Seawright last month at a mobile Roosevelt Island Mobile Test van site.

According to NYC Health Department, the most recent 7 Day Covid Testing Data from December 31 - January 6 for Roosevelt Island (Zip Code 10044 ) shows 843 people tested and 181 new Positive Cases for a rate of 21.47%.

As previously reported:

... the 7 Day Covid Testing Data from December 27 - January 2 for Roosevelt Island (Zip Code 10044 ) shows 610 people tested and 188 new Positive Cases for a rate of 30.82.%.

... the 7 Day Covid Testing Data from December 26 - January 1 for Roosevelt Island (Zip Code 10044 ) shows 580 people tested and 171 new Positive Cases for a rate of 29.48.%.

More Roosevelt Island Covid 19 Test Data here.

Also, according to NYC Health Department 10,536 (90.27%) Roosevelt Island residents have received at least one vaccine dose and 9,400 (80.54%) residents are full vaccinated.

There have been 11 people hospitalized from Roosevelt Island zip code 10044 with Covid 19 for the 28 day period from November 30 -December 27 for a rate of 94.2 per 100 thousand people.

There have been no Roosevelt Island Covid 19 deaths during this 28 day period. 

The Roosevelt Island 10044 Zip Code Covid 19 hospitalization data during 28 day period of November 23 - December 20 shows 7 people hospitalized for a rate of 60 per 100 Thousand people.


By ROOSEVELT ISLANDER at 5:17:00 PM 0 comments

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Sunday, December 19, 2021

NYC Health & Hospitals Corp Mobile Covid Test Van Returns To Roosevelt Island December 20 To 24 With PCR And Rapid Antigen Tests - Also, Covid Vaccination And Booster Shots - Latest Roosevelt Island Covid Testing And Vaccination Data

The NYC Health & Hospitals (HHC) Mobil Covid Test Unit was on Roosevelt Island from December 6-12 

thanks to the efforts of NYC Council Member-Elect Julie Menin and NY State Assembly Member Rebecca Seawright. The Mobile Covid Test Unit is returning to Roosevelt Island tomorrow, December 20, thru December 24 and will do vaccinations as well as testing.

The Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) adds:

Roosevelt Island!

Starting on Monday, December 20th, and operating through Friday, December 24th, the New York City Health + Hospital (NYCHH) Mobile COVID Testing & Vaccination Unit will be located at Good Shepherd Plaza (543 Main Street).

Operating Hours

  • Monday, December 20th -  Thursday, December 23rd: 8 AM to 6 PM
  • Friday, December 24th: 8 AM to 2 PM

Testing

PCR and Rapid Antigen tests will be available. Rapid Antigen results can be expected within 20 minutes while PCR results will take longer.

Vaccines and Boosters

First and second shot vaccinations, including Pfizer 12 years+ and Johnson & Johnson 18 years+, as well as boosters will be available.

Services are offered at no cost, no insurance is needed, and appointments are not necessary as the unit operates on a first-come, first-serve basis. Please be sure to bring proper ID and your existing vaccination card, if you have one. Live interpretation services will be available.

According to NYC Health Department, the most recent 7 Day Covid Testing Data from December 10 - 16, on Roosevelt Island (Zip Code 10044 ) shows 778 people tested and 36 Positive Case for a rate of 4.63%.

As previously reported:

The 7 Day Covid Testing Data from December 7 - 13 for Roosevelt Island (Zip Code 10044 ) - 813 people were tested and 33 Positive Case for a rate of 4.06%.

... The 7 Day Covid Testing Data from December 6 - 12, when the Covid Mobile Test Van was here on Roosevelt Island (Zip Code 10044 ), 973 people were tested resulting in 30 Positive Cases for a rate of 3.08%. ...

... The 7 Day Covid Testing Data from November 24 - November 30  for Roosevelt Island Zip Code 10044 shows 578 people tested and 15 Positive Case for a rate of 2.6%.... 

Also, according to NYC Health Department 10,054 Roosevelt Island residents have received at least one vaccine dose and 9,099 residents are full vaccinated.

I asked Ms Menin:

Do you know if any Roosevelt Island Community Based Organizations will be receiving the Test & Trace Corp Kits and how they will be distributed to Roosevelt Island residents?
It's being worked on replied Ms Menin.

By ROOSEVELT ISLANDER at 4:22:00 PM 0 comments

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Monday, December 13, 2021

NYC Test & Trace Mobile Covid Test Van Returning To Roosevelt Island Next Week Says Council Member Elect Julie Menin & Assembly Member Rebecca Seawright, About 1,000 Covid Tests Done Last Week - Menin Adds Covid Vaccination Site Coming To Roosevelt Island Too

As reported December 5:

... Newly-elected Roosevelt Island/Upper East Side NYC Council Member-elect Julie Menin and NY State Assembly Member Rebecca Seawright answered the pleas from residents and immediately worked to bring a NYC Health & Hospitals Test And Trace Mobile Covid Test Unit ...

The Mobil Covid Test Unit was on Roosevelt Island

from December 6 - 12, but not today.

This morning I asked Council Member Elect Julie Menin:

Mobile Covid Testing van is gone today. Do you know if it will be back? Any info on how many tests they did?

Ms Menin replied: 

City told me that it will be back next week 12/20-12/24 and will be test and vaccination. 

About a 1000 tests for the whole week were done (combined rapid & PCR) but that doesn’t mean 1000 unique individuals as many people opt to have both rapid and PCR together.

I spoke with Ms Seawright on Saturday at the Roosevelt Island Covid 19 mobile test van.

Good job by Roosevelt Island's elected officials Ms Menin and  Ms Seawright.

According to NYC Health Departmen, the most recent 7 Day Covid Testing Data from December 4 - 10  for Roosevelt Island Zip Code 10044 shows 842 people tested and 16 Positive Case for a rate of 1.9%.

As previously reported:

... the 7 Day Covid Testing Data from November 24 - November 30  for Roosevelt Island Zip Code 10044 shows 578 people tested and 15 Positive Case for a rate of 2.6%.

UPDATE - 12/14:

UPDATE 12/15 - According to NYC Health Department, the most recent 7 Day Covid Testing Data from December 6 - 12, when the Covid Mobile Test Van was here on Roosevelt Island (Zip Code 10044 ) shows 973 people tested and 30 Positive Case for a rate of 3.08%.

By ROOSEVELT ISLANDER at 5:50:00 PM 0 comments

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Thursday, October 14, 2021

Almost 80% Of Roosevelt Island Public Safety Officers Received Covid 19 Vaccination Shot, 8 Unvaccinated Officers Must Wear Face Masks At All Times On Duty Except When Eating Says PSD Chief During RIRA PSC Meeting

During October 6 press briefing with Mayor deBlasio, NYPD Commissioner Dermot Shea said:

... I would be supportive of a vaccine mandate. I've said that from day one. I think that the science, to health, the emergency situation that we're in, it makes sense. Currently we're at 68 percent of our workforce. So, our current mandate is either be vaccinated or you submit to the testing and prove that you tested once within seven days....

 

As reported last July 27:

... During the July 20 Roosvelt Island Residents Association (RIRA) Public Safety Committee (PSC) meeting, RIOC Public Safety Department (PSD) Chief Kevin Brown reported that one officer recently tested positive for Covid 19 and that only 50% of PSD Officers have received the Covid 19 vaccine. Chief Brown added that he received the Covid 19 vaccine and Deputy Chief Anthony Amoroso has previously said he was vaccinated as well. 

2 officers of the Roosevelt Island Public Safety Department died from Covid 19 - Officer Corey Fischer and Detective Wayne Jones. A Roosevelt Island Memorial gathering for both officers will be held in August said Chief Brown during the July 20 PSC meeting....

... UPDATE July 29 - RIOC Public Information Officer Amy Smith reports:

Yesterday, Governor Andrew M. Cuomo announced that all New York State employees—about 130,000 people—will be required to get vaccinated for COVID-19 by Labor Day. State employees who do not get vaccinated will be required to be tested for COVID-19 on a weekly basis. New York State is working with state unions to implement the requirement quickly and fairly. As a state agency, Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation (RIOC) will adhere to these requirements as the safety of our employees, partners, and patrons is of the utmost importance to us.
During a September 22, 2021 Roosevelt Island Residents Association (RIRA) Public Safety Committee (PSC) meeting discussion of Covid 19 vaccination status update among PSD Officers, Roosevelt Island Public Safety Chief Kevin Brown said:

... more than a majority of the staff have been vaccinated...

and Deputy Chief Amoroso added:

... a little bit over 75% almost 80%...

 have been vaccinated.

Chief Brown also reported that of those PSD officers not vaccinated, they must wear face masks at all times, inside and outside, except when they are eating. 8 PSD officers were not vaccinated as of September 22.

Here's the full RIRA PSC discussion with Chief Brown and Deputy Chief Amoroso on PSD Covid 19 vaccination status.

 On October 4, I asked PSD Chief Brown and RIOC Public Information Officer Amy Smith:

... Have any additional officers received the Covid 19 vaccine since the September 21 meeting? Does RIOC have any statement on this subject?.

Have not received an answer.

During the May 20,2021 Community Board 8 Roosevelt Island Committee meeting, Deputy Chief Amoroso reported that 2 senior PSD officers died from Covid and 19 other officers, 1/3 of the entire force, were infected with the disease.  

By ROOSEVELT ISLANDER at 3:34:00 PM 0 comments

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Wednesday, October 6, 2021

Covid 19 Pfizer Booster & Moderna Third Dose Shot Clinic Appointments Available For Eligible Persons At Roosevelt Island NY State Assembly Member Rebecca Seawright's District Office - Roosevelt Island Vaccination Rate 76%, What You Need To Know About Covid Booster Shots

Roosevelt Island NY State Assembly Member Rebecca Seawright is sponsoring Covid 19 vaccination clinics for those seeking the Pfizer booster or Moderna third dose vaccine.

According to this announcement from Ms Seawright:

The booster and third dose shots are free and administered in cooperation with Drug Mart Pharmacy at Seawright’s district office located at 1485 York Ave., near 79th Street.


The all-day clinics are scheduled for Friday, October 8, Tuesday, October 12 and Tuesday October 19.. Appointments available from 9 AM until 6 PM.  "We are happy to partner with Assemblymember Seawright to help serve our community," said Drug Mart owner Ilana Aminov, RPh.

 

The Pfizer booster shot is available for individuals 65 and over, and for individuals 18-64 who live in a nursing home or long term care facility, or for those who have an underlying medical condition, or at increased risk of COVID-19 exposure due at their jobsite (for example, health care workers), or where they live or frequently visit such as homeless shelters.

 

To schedule an appointment for the Pfizer booster shot visit:

 

https://drugmart.fullslate.com/services/1486?location=1436&start=5019

 

The Moderna third dose shot is available for people who are moderately to severely immunocompromised or have a weakened immune system. They are eligible for a third dose of the Moderna or Pfizer vaccine 28 days after their second shot as part of their initial vaccination series.


To schedule an appointment for the Moderna booster, visit:

https://drugmart.fullslate.com/services/1187?location=1436&start=5019

 

Call Assemblymember Seawright’s office at 212-288-4607 for further assistance.

The Roosevelt Island Duane Reade/Walgreens is offering Covid 19 Vaccinations but not booster shots yet. 

According to the NYC Health Department Covid Statistics for Roosevelt Island Zip Code 10044, as of today, of an estimated population of 11,571:

  • 8882 residents have at least one dose of vaccination (76.1%)
  • 8388 residents fully vaccinated (71.87%)

Here's latest info on Covid 19 vaccinations and booster shots.


By ROOSEVELT ISLANDER at 3:16:00 PM 0 comments

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Thursday, August 19, 2021

NYC Indoor Dining, Entertainment And Fitness Covid Vaccine Mandate Begins This Week, How Is Compliance On Roosevelt Island So Far - Cornell Cafe Complying But Not RIOC Sportspark Pool

According to this August 16 press release from NYC Mayor Bill deBlasio's office: 

Mayor Bill de Blasio today announced the Key to NYC vaccination mandate for indoor dining, entertainment and fitness will start tomorrow, August 17. Enforcement will begin, with a multi-agency coalition, on September 13. Read the Executive Order here....

...“The Key to NYC will unlock many of our favorite activities,” said Health Commissioner Dr. Dave A. Chokshi. “Vaccination makes every activity safer and this is a common-sense precaution to keep patrons of gyms, restaurants and indoor entertainment healthy.”...

... Penalties for failure to comply after September 13 start at $1,000 and can reach $5,000 for repeated violators.

The NYC Department Of Health adds:

... Starting August 17, people 12 and older will be required to show proof they have received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine authorized for emergency use by the FDA or WHO for:

  • Indoor dining
    • Includes restaurants, catering halls, event spaces, hotel banquet rooms, bars, nightclubs, cafeterias, grocery stores with indoor dining, coffee shops and fast food or quick service with indoor dining
  • Indoor fitness
    • Includes gyms, fitness centers, fitness classes, pools, indoor studios and dance studios
  • Indoor entertainment
    • Includes movie theaters, music and concert venues, museums and galleries, aquariums and zoos, professional sports arenas, indoor stadiums, convention centers, exhibition halls, performing arts theaters, bowling alleys, arcades, pool and billiard halls, recreational game centers, adult entertainment and indoor play areas

This new requirement — called the Key to NYC — includes bars, fitness gyms, movie and stage theatres, museums and other indoor venues. Staff at these locations are also required to be vaccinated.

The highly contagious delta variant is spreading quickly in NYC, and unvaccinated people are at the most risk for infection, hospitalization and death. Learn how you can get vaccinated for free today....

... Proof of vaccination may include:

The Roosevelt Island Cafe @Cornell Tech is abiding by the NYC Vaccine mandate for those wishing to eat inside.

But a tipster reports that the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) has not been checking vaccination status this week for those using the Sportspark pool 

and upon asking the Public Safety Department about the matter, the Tipster was told:

... they didn't know anything about it...

Last Monday, I asked RIOC:

I’m told Sportspark is not asking for proof of vaccination today?

Why not?

Will they in future?

Does the NYC proof of vaccination apply to rioc facilities?

No response to date from RIOC.

NYC restaurateur Danny Meyer explains to the Washington Post why he supports the vaccine mandate

 

We live in different worlds.

Update 8/23 - I followed up again today asking RIOC:

I'm following up to see why RIOC is not checking vaccination status at Sportspark Pool as required by NYC.

As of this morning, RIOC is still not checking vaccine status.

Any comment from RIOC?

 RIOC replied this evening:

As we continue to adjust our operations to keep the Roosevelt Island community safe during COVID-19, Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation (RIOC) will align our polices with the recent Key to NYC vaccination mandate issued by New York City on August 17, 2021.     

This mandate states that people 12 and older will be required to show proof that they have received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine authorized for emergency use by the FDA or WHO to enter affected facilities.

Affected RIOC facilities include:

  • Sportspark
  • Cultural Center

Acceptable forms of proof of Vaccination:   


The highly contagious delta variant is spreading quickly and unvaccinated people are at the most risk for infection, hospitalization, and death. For more information on this mandate, visit https://www1.nyc.gov/site/doh/covid/covid-19-vaccines-keytonyc.page. To find out where you can receive a free COVID-19 vaccine, visit vaccinefinder.nyc.gov or call 1-877-829-4692.







By ROOSEVELT ISLANDER at 7:28:00 PM 0 comments

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Thursday, August 5, 2021

San Francisco Offering Booster Shots To Some Who Received Single Dose Johnson & Johnson Covid 19 Vaccine - NYC Mayor & Health Commissioner Asked About A Booster Shot For Johnson & Johnson Covid 19 Vaccine Here


As previously reported:

... during the weekend of March 13-14, Duane Reade/Walgreens vaccinated almost 1300 people with the Johnson & Johnson single dose Covid 19 vaccine at a pop-up clinic site in the Roosevelt Island Senior Center. ...

On August 3, a reporter asked NYC Mayor Bill deBlasio about possible booster shots for those who, like like the Mayor himself, and many Roosevelt Island residents, received the single dose Johnson & Johnson Covid 19 vaccine.

 ... Question: And I also wanted to ask we saw a report from our sister station actually in San Francisco reporting that San Francisco General Hospital is going to start giving booster shots, mRNA booster shots to people who took the Johnson & Johnson vaccine. I know that you took the Johnson & Johnson vaccine. Have you heard anything about that? Is that something that you would do yourself? Would you take a booster shot?    

Mayor: Well, I’ll turn in a moment to my fellow Johnson & Johnson vaccine, Dr. Dave Chokshi, and obviously if Dr. Katz or Dr. Varma want to add. I'm ready to take a booster shot whenever the time is right and whenever the priority is right, because as with everything, if we're introducing any new piece to the equation, we want to make sure that those who need it most get it first. But if at any point it's determined that booster shots are advisable, I'm certainly ready when my turn comes. With that, Dr. Chokshi.   

Commissioner Dave Chokshi, Department of Health and Mental Hygiene: Thank you very much, Mr. Mayor. We are following the science very closely on this, particularly in the context of the Delta variant. At this moment, we are not recommending booster shots for any individuals based on our scientific understanding right now. However, there is some evidence, and it is growing, that booster shots may be a recommended or required a little bit further down the road. If that happens, it's most likely to be prioritized for people who are immunocompromised, potentially older individuals as well, but this is an area where we need to ensure that we follow the science as well as the recommendations from the FDA on it. So, this is an area for us to stay tuned, but I want to give that clear message that at this moment, we are not recommending booster shots for anyone, including those who have received the Johnson & Johnson vaccine. 

According to NBC News:

The San Francisco Department of Public Health will offer what it is calling a "supplemental" dose of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine to anyone who received the single-dose Johnson & Johnson vaccination, but city officials said the move does not reflect a policy change and it is not recommending a booster shot....

Here's more info on the Covid 19 booster shot being given to some in San Francisco who received the Johnson & Johnson vaccine

The Center For Disease Control has a Q&A on the Johnson & Johnson Covid 19 vaccine and Yale Medicine reviews Covid 19 booster info.

By ROOSEVELT ISLANDER at 12:02:00 PM 0 comments

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Tuesday, August 3, 2021

Back To School Is On the Horizon So Plan Ahead, August 9 Is Last Day For Your Child To Be Fully Vaccinated With Pfizer Vaccine Before September 13 School Start Date Says NYC Mayor Bill deBlasio, Schools Chancellor Meisha Porter & NYC Health Commissioner Dave Chokshi

Back-to-School is on the Horizon, so Plan Ahead: Get Vaccinated by August 9

By Meisha Porter and Dr. Dave A. Chokshi

In early July, we were elated to welcome students to classrooms for Summer Rising, the City’s free summer academic and enrichment program. Children were clearly excited to be back with their teachers and friends, and those feelings have only grown over the past few weeks. In an elementary school in East Harlem, youngsters proudly displayed the solar-powered ovens they’d built to cook s’mores. In a school in Chinatown, students gasped with joy over the “magical” science experiments performed by Jason Latimer of YouTube’s Impossible Science channel. And in a school in the Bronx, students dove into their lessons and demonstrated an outdoor mindfulness activity.

Experiences like these are reflected in the smiles of hundreds of thousands of children who are in school to learn, play, connect, and grow this summer. Both children and their parents are grateful to have this bridge to the next school year.

We see the first day of school—Monday, September 13—as a homecoming. In fact, it comes shortly after NYC Homecoming Week, a five-borough celebration of the city’s resilience throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

As we think ahead to the fall, the health and safety of students and school communities are at the forefront of our planning. We are asking New Yorkers to help with a crucial part of this work: get vaccinated. If your child is between 12 and 17 years old, August 9 is the last day for your child to get the Pfizer vaccine in order to be fully vaccinated in time for school.

This date is important to remember because the vaccine for adolescents involves a two-dose regimen, and it takes two weeks from the second shot for someone to be considered fully vaccinated. So, think of this as your doctor’s orders: Schedule your vaccine today if you have not already.

Safely and fully reopening schools this fall is a milestone for our city, and we are eager to see students back in their school communities. We are doing everything in our power to create a safe learning environment—from disinfecting every school, to re-configuring classrooms and improving ventilation, to stocking up on face masks and hand sanitizer.

And last week, Mayor de Blasio announced that school staff must show a one-time proof of vaccination or weekly COVID-19 tests. The new requirement recognizes that the single most important way we can help our children go back to learning, and save lives, is with vaccination.

As parents ourselves, we know the decision to vaccinate is important, and we would do anything to protect our children. The vaccine is safe and very effective. Over 250,000 young New Yorkers have now gotten the shot.

At school, vaccination allows children to be in the classroom, participate in afterschool activities and sports, and gather with friends—safely. It also provides a more stable learning environment, (for example, students who are considered fully vaccinated are not required to quarantine).  

Getting the shot has never been easier in New York City. Access to vaccination is widely available in all five boroughs, and the City is offering a new $100 incentive for anyone (including children) who gets their first dose at a City-run site. Nearly all New Yorkers live within half a mile of a public vaccination site, and everyone is eligible to request and receive at-home vaccination. Pediatricians and other health care providers can also help answer questions, and many are able to give the COVID-19 vaccine at a back-to-school check-up, along with other routine immunizations. If you need a provider, call 1-844-NYC-4NYC and you will be transferred.

We’re so excited to welcome all New York City students back into classrooms in September. Because of vaccination, our buildings will soon be fully open and our young people will be learning. We deeply appreciate the partnership of the city’s families and the commitment to keeping our school communities safe and healthy.

Meisha Porter is Chancellor of the NYC Department of Education

Dave A. Chokshi, MD, MSc, is Commissioner of the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene

By ROOSEVELT ISLANDER at 3:30:00 PM 0 comments

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Tuesday, July 27, 2021

Only 50% Of Roosevelt Island Public Safety Department Officers Inoculated With Covid 19 Vaccine Says PSD Chief Brown - NYC Mayor deBlasio Announces NYPD And All City Workers Must Show Proof Of Covid Vaccinaton Or Weekly Negative Test, Will RIOC Do Same For PSD And All Staff?

NYC Mayor Bill deBlasio announced yesterday:

Yesterday, I asked the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC):

Mayor deBlasio announced today that NYC employees will either have to be inoculated with the Covid Vaccine or have weekly testing.

Will RIOC follow the NYC policy regarding Covid Vaccination/testing for RIOC employees? If not, why not?

What percentage of RIOC employees are vaccinated? I understand that 50% of PSD officers are vaccinated?

Please let me know if RIOC will comment.

No answer yet from RIOC.

During the July 20 Roosvelt Island Residents Association (RIRA) Pubilc Safety Committee (PSC) meeting, RIOC Public Safety Department (PSD) Chief Kevin Brown reported that one officer recently tested positive for Covid 19 and that only 50% of PSD Officers have received the Covid 19 vaccine. Chief Brown added that he received the Covid 19 vaccine and Deputy Chief Anthony Amoroso has previously said he was vaccinated as well. 

2 officers of the Roosevelt Island Public Safety Department died from Covid 19 - Officer Corey Fischer and Detective Wayne Jones. A Roosevelt Island Memorial gathering for both officers will be held in August said Chief Brown during the July 20 PSC meeting.

NYPD Commissioner Dermot Shea told NY 1' Pat Kiernan that he supports Mayor deBlasoi's mandatory Covid vaccination or weekly testing policy.

According to the NYC Health Department Covid Statistics for Roosevelt Island Zip Code 10044, of an estimated population of 11,571:  

  • 8055 residents have at least one dose of vaccination (69.01%)
  • 7636 residents fully vaccinated (65.42%)

The most recent 7 Day Covid Testing Data from July 18-24 for Roosevelt Island Zip Code 10044 shows 279 people tested and 2 Positive Case for a rate of 0.72%.

Will RIOC follow the lead of NYC and require Covid vaccinations or weekly negative testing for all employees? 

UPDATE 7/28:

UPDATE July 29 - RIOC Public Information Officer Amy Smith reports:
Yesterday, Governor Andrew M. Cuomo announced that all New York State employees—about 130,000 people—will be required to get vaccinated for COVID-19 by Labor Day. State employees who do not get vaccinated will be required to be tested for COVID-19 on a weekly basis. New York State is working with state unions to implement the requirement quickly and fairly. As a state agency, Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation (RIOC) will adhere to these requirements as the safety of our employees, partners, and patrons is of the utmost importance to us.

By ROOSEVELT ISLANDER at 5:34:00 PM 0 comments

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Thursday, July 1, 2021

NYC Mobil Vaccine Clinic Van Offering Free Pfizer Covid 19 Vaccinations This Week On Roosevelt Island, No Appointment Necessary - 66% Roosevelt Island Residents Have At Least One Dose, 62% Fully Vaccinated

A New York City Mobil Vaccine Clinic Van  was offering free Roosevelt Island Pfizer Covid 19 vaccinations last week  and returned this week again offering free Pfizer Covid 19 vaccinations. This week the Covid 19 Vaccine Clinic Van is located next to Manhattan Park and the Motorgate Garage (688 Main Street) from 7 AM - 7 PM.

The vaccine clinic van is scheduled to be at the location until Friday, July 2.

According to the NYC Health Department Covid Statistics for Roosevelt Island Zip Code 10044, of an estimated population of 11,571:

  • 7727 residents have at least one dose of vaccination (66.2%)
  • 7267 residents fully vaccinated (62.26%)

The most recent 7 Day Covid Testing Data from June 21-77 for Roosevelt Island Zip Code 10044 shows 222 people tested and zero positive cases for a rate of 0%


The NYC Health Department neighborhood Covid Data Profile for Roosevelt Island zip code 10044 shows a total of 574 cases and 40 deaths.

By ROOSEVELT ISLANDER at 11:41:00 AM 0 comments

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