Volunteer opportunities available at vaccination sites

By Daphne Thomas

Southwest students and employees who would like to volunteer at the vaccination site at the Whitehaven Center or other sites in the community may sign up via the Give Pulse volunteer portal managed by the University of Tennessee Health Science Center. Simply log in using your social media account or set up an account with UTHSC. Once logged in, select “processor” or “observer”.

Whitehaven Vaccination Site volunteers help manage traffic flow and the cue and assist with appointment screening, monitoring residents after their vaccination and other duties as assigned. Volunteers at the Whitehaven Vaccination Site are eligible to receive the vaccine if there is surplus vaccine available.

VOLUNTEER PREPARATION

UTHSC provides the following information on Volunteer Preparation:

It's imperative that all volunteers, donors and individuals who anticipate interacting with others either physically distance themselves or ensure that they are healthy, capable and willing. Individuals who meet these health requirements can get involved here.

• Wash Hands and Be Clean

The CDC recommends that you wash your hands regularly and thoroughly, particularly after sneezing or coughing, when caring for the sick, before, after, and during food preparation, before eating, after use of toilets, when hands are visibly dirty, and after handling animals. Washing hands often and thoroughly (for at least 20 seconds) will help to prevent the spread of the virus, both to yourself and others. Avoid touching your face. If you cannot wash your hands, frequently use an alcohol-based hand rub/sanitizer.

• Cover Coughs and Sneezes

Always cover your coughs and sneezes with your inner elbow or a tissue (if into a tissue, please dispose immediately and wash your hands). Droplets can spread the virus; good respiratory hygiene helps to protect those around you from the potential spread of the virus. This is particularly true given that droplets can remain on surfaces long after you have left, leaving all those who come into contact vulnerable.

• Physical (also known as Social) Distancing

Maintaining six feet of physical distance can prevent the spread of virus, as this is how far droplets travel after a cough or a sneeze. Physical distance can protect you and those around you alike. Note: while this has been referred to as social distancing, increasingly the term physical distancing is being preferred, as social connection is of particular importance at this time.

For more information on how to get involved with the coronavirus response, visit Novel Coronavirus - COVID19 | The University of Tennessee Health Science Center (givepulse.com)