DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office receives COVID-19 vaccines for staff members

DeKalb County Sheriff Melody Maddox rolled up her Class A Uniform sleeve on Dec. 11 to receive a vaccination against the COVID-19 Coronavirus.

“I have no fear of this vaccine,” said Maddox.  “In fact, I look forward to it with the knowledge that it is a responsibility we all share in this protracted effort to stop the pandemic. Public health officials say there is always a chance of re-infection, so getting the vaccine, while continuing to wear masks, wash our hands and practice social distancing, remains our best defense.”

Maddox was one of four metro area sheriffs who tested positive for the virus in December and survived it.

Law enforcement agency staffs are among the groups designated by public health authorities to get the initial round of vaccines.

Maddox and the agency’s Command Staff were immunized by DeKalb EMS teams, who have been trained to administer the vaccine. In accordance with continuing immunization plans, all sheriff’s office employees will be able to receive vaccines beginning this week at the agency or later at vaccine centers in DeKalb County.

“Getting vaccinated is not mandatory, but it is a selfless act,” Maddox said. “For their personal protection and for the benefit of their families, co-workers, the inmates in our custody, and everyone they encounter on a daily basis, I hope they will seriously consider being vaccinated right away.”

Public health agencies, the CDC and vaccine companies are providing educational information and resources to staff members.