Feb
22

COVID-19 Update: Save the Date, Town Hall Meeting Feb. 25

Banner showing COVID-19 virus

Thank you for the thoughtful questions you have shared with the COVID-19 Response Team regarding vaccination. As our nation embarks on the largest mass vaccination effort in its history, there is great demand for accurate and up-to-date information.

To help address your questions and concerns, the COVID-19 Response Team will be hosting a virtual All-Staff Meeting on Thursday, February 25 at 10:00 am ET. The discussion will cover the science and basics of vaccines, the phased rollout of the vaccine, how the Smithsonian is supporting vaccination efforts, and what you need to know about getting vaccinated. There will be an opportunity to ask questions during a moderated question and answer session.

Panelists will include:

  • Rich Wright, Response Team Deputy Coordinating Officer, Chair of the Reopening Task Force, and Director of the Office of Safety, Health and Environmental Management (OSHEM)
  • Elliot Gruber, Lead Advisor to the Reopening Task Force and Director of the National Postal Museum
  • Anne McDonough, MD MPH, Response Team Public Health Lead and Associate Director, Occupational Health Services, OSHEM
  • Eileen Hartigan, RN, COVID-19 Response Team and Occupational Health Nurse Manager, Occupational Health Services, OSHEM

While vaccination offers much hope, we understand that the vaccination process may seem daunting. Through this discussion and future conversations, which will be announced in the coming weeks, we aim to bring clarity to the subject, delve deeper into the science behind vaccination, and address concerns that may have some people feeling hesitant about vaccination.

As we navigate the vaccination process, please be patient and visit your local health department website for updates in your region. Every day, more vaccination centers are opening as localities partner with pharmacies and other businesses, supplies are increasing, and more people are receiving their doses. As the situation evolves, we will continue to update you through email, website updates, and virtual gatherings.

More information on how to access the live stream of the All-Staff Meeting with be provided in the coming days. Until then, please visit the COVID-19 Response Team website for the latest updates or reach out via email should have questions on this or other pandemic response topics.

We hope to see you on February 25th.

Stay safe and be well,
COVID-19 Response Team

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Posted: 22 February 2021
About the Author:

Alex di Giovanni is primarily responsible for "other duties as assigned" in the Office of Communications and External Affairs. She has been with the Smithsonian since 2006 and plans to be interred in the Smithson crypt.