Rockville, Md. – Residents of Hebrew Home of Greater Washington are stepping up to help the Maryland Department of Health (MDH) understand changes over time in COVID-19 antibody levels.
“We had 103 residents volunteer to take part in the state’s study,” said Brenda L. Rice, vice president for operations at Charles E. Smith Life Communities, which operates Hebrew Home skilled nursing and rehabilitation center. “These caring residents are making an important contribution.”
MDH’s goal was to enroll more than 1,000 people in nursing care and rehabilitation across the state to determine how levels of antibodies to COVID-19 change in those who are fully vaccinated and received a booster immunization. The study is similar to one the state conducted in August of last year, leading to the provision of booster injections.
“Throughout this pandemic, the frontline team, leaders, and volunteers of Charles E. Smith Life Communities led the way in adapting to unprecedented challenges brought by COVID-19 and in steadfastly providing quality care,” said Joseph DeMattos, President and CEO of the Health Facilities Association of Maryland (HFAM). “This latest work with the State of Maryland is just another example of their life-saving leadership. We are proud to have CESLC as a member of HFAM.”
According to the health department, the goal of the current study is “to understand how antibody levels change over time both after being vaccinated and after receiving a booster shot. The state expects the results to help with decision-making about the need for additional booster doses.” The state plans to have a report available soon outlining findings and potential recommendations.
“This is a unique opportunity to help in the battle against the pandemic,” Rice said, “and we are pleased so many residents offered to be part of the study.”
