Escambia County received its first Moderna vaccine shipment for first responders Wednesday, Dec. 23. Interim Public Safety Director Eric Gilmore was the first employee to receive the Moderna vaccine this morning at the Escambia County Public Safety Building located at 6575 North "W" St. in Pensacola. Escambia County EMTs, paramedics, firefighters and City of Pensacola firefighters who volunteered were vaccinated against COVID-19 today with the Moderna vaccine, and the county will continue to offer it to first responders over the next couple of weeks.
"The vaccine did not hurt," said Escambia County Interim Public Safety Director Eric Gilmore. "It's a personal preference. This is the first time that we can go on the offensive. We've been playing defense since March, and now we have a tool in our toolbox to go on the offensive, which is a great feeling. Personally, getting vaccinated gives me a little more confidence. I will be a little more at ease going into places, and I think most of the first responders here today feel that way, and that's why they are here. There is a lot of misinformation about the vaccine so when it does roll out to the community, I encourage everyone to do their research and do not get your information solely from social media. Go to CDC or the state of Florida websites or call your health department or local provider to determine if this is right for you."
Escambia County would like to remind residents to continue preventative efforts to control the spread of COVID-19 by wearing masks, avoiding crowds, socially distancing and washing hands.
CVS and Walgreens workers are going to long-term care facilities in Escambia County. Local hospitals received their vaccines for frontline healthcare workers earlier this week. Essential workers will then be next to be able to receive the vaccine.

Interim Public Safety Director Eric Gilmore was the first employee to receive the Moderna vaccine from Escambia County Paramedic Crystal Dirks.

Escambia County EMS Supervisor Joey Kirman was the second employee to receive the Moderna vaccine from Escambia County Paramedic Ginger Given.

Escambia County Fire Battalion Chief Norm Robinson was the third employee to receive the Moderna vaccine from Escambia County Fire Captain Craig Ammons.

City of Pensacola Fire Chief Ginny Cranor received the Moderna vaccine from Escambia County EMS Supervisor Joey Kirman.

Escambia County received its first Moderna vaccine shipment for first responders Wednesday, Dec. 23. Pictured: Interim Public Safety Director Eric Gilmore

Escambia County received its first Moderna vaccine shipment for first responders Wednesday, Dec. 23.