Shot in the Arm: Community, University Members Receive Vaccine at Field House Event

More than 2,000 area residents, including some Kent State University employees, received their first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine March 23, during a mass vaccination event at the Kent State Field House. 

The mass vaccinations will continue every Tuesday at the field house this spring and are led by the Portage County Combined General Health District. Future clinic dates/times may vary based upon the amount of vaccine received by the county.

"My decision to take the vaccine was driven by my desire to protect myself, my family and my community," said Amoaba Gooden, interim vice president for Kent State's Division of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. 

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"I had a great experience! The process was smooth and simple," she said. "There were a lot of volunteers and people on hand to assist me, from when I entered the parking lot to my exit. Someone stayed with me after the vaccine was administered and checked on me during my 15-minute stay. Special thanks to the Portage Health Commissioner Joseph Diorio and to the Kent State senior nursing student, Taylor, who administered my shot."

More than 50 nursing students took part in assisting at the event.

"It was a proud moment for faculty and a great experience for them," said Taryn Burhanna, Community Health Nurse Coordinator for Kent State's College of Nursing. "They all got to see every part of how the operation was run in addition to getting to administer shots. Even better, students of all levels, sophomores to seniors were interacting, which brings a new level to experiential learning. That peer-to-peer teaching and comradery are wonderful to see in these times."

The clini

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cs are open to anyone who meets the state eligibility requirements for a vaccine. The health district expects to be able to administer more than 2,200 shots per day at these clinics. Registration is required and must be made through the Ohio Department of Health.

The Ohio Department of Health has set up an online portal with information on vaccines and links to book appointments to get vaccinated.

Pfizer, Moderna and Johnson & Johnson vaccines may be available depending on what vaccine is received by the county that week. At this time, however, a person cannot choose which vaccine they receive.

A panel of university and community health leaders recently discussed the value of receiving the vaccine during a virtual town hall event. 

All community members are encouraged to continue to practice the Flashes Safe Eight safety principles in helping to mitigate the spread of the virus.