State University of New York Chancellor Jim Malatras today announced that the three hospitals run by Stony Brook University administered 100 percent of their initial COVID-19 vaccine allotment on Friday. Stony Brook University Medical also began distributing its second allotment of the vaccine earlier in the week. Frontline healthcare personnel across SUNY’s three university medical hubs are now receiving the second dose of the vaccine. In accordance with guidance issued by the New York State Department of Health, Downstate Medical, Upstate Medical, and Stony Brook University Hospital began administering the first doses of the vaccine on December 15 with a focus on healthcare personnel at high risk for transmitting or becoming infected with the virus.
“I’m proud to head up SUNY—the largest comprehensive system of public higher education in the country— because time and time again, our students, faculty, staff, and many others in our college community has risen to the occasion in fighting COVID-19,” said Chancellor Malatras. “Our frontline workers who have already done so much are now facing down a winter wave of the virus that’s claiming thousands of lives across the country every day. Giving our dedicated health care staff protection and peace-of-mind through the vaccine is our first priority. Congratulations to the entire Stony Brook University team for finishing the initial round of vaccinations.”
Stony Brook University President Maurie McInnis said, “Distribution of the first allotment and availability of the second dose mark major milestones in our battle against COVID-19. It provides greater protection for the thousands of frontline workers at Stony Brook University Hospital, who have so selflessly and steadfastly cared for our local communities these past 10 months. The vaccines serve as a source of hope for us all as we work together to tackle this pandemic. We are so grateful to be able to offer this important level of protection to our dedicated staff.”
SUNY’s hospitals have been at the forefront of caring for patients in some of the hardest hit locations, including SUNY Downstate Health Sciences, serving as a COVID-only hospital, and Stony Brook University Hospital on Long Island during the first surge in cases last spring. Upstate Medical Infectious Disease Chief Dr. Stephen Thomas served as principal investigator for the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine, which was approved last month.
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