Shreveport, La. (October 13, 2021) – The EVT Viral Genomics and Sequencing Lab at LSU Health Shreveport is first in the state to sequence and report that a new variant of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, has been detected in Louisiana. The new variant, B.1.630, was sequenced last week from two samples collected in Baton Rouge.

“Thanks to our many partnerships across the state, our EVT Viral Genomics and Sequencing Lab is able to sequence a large variety of samples which increases our chances of finding new variants. Genomic sequencing and the data this science provides is important to continuing our mission of public health surveillance so we can help best protect citizens of Louisiana throughout the duration of this pandemic,” said Dr. Chris Kevil, Vice Chancellor for Research at LSU Health Shreveport.

The B.1.630 variant was first detected in the United States earlier in March of 2021. It does not have variant classification or a Greek alphabet name like the commonly known Delta variant because it accounts for such a small proportion of samples sequenced. It does contain the E484Q mutation, which may help the virus escape the host immune system and lead to infection. Currently, there have only been 79 of these variants sequenced in the U.S., so the predominance is very low.

“Even though the predominance of this variant is low, we will continue to keep an eye on it and watch for any changes or if it starts to increase,” said Dr. Krista Queen, Director of Viral Genomics and Surveillance for the Center of Excellence for Emerging Viral Threats at LSUHS. “Any lineage or sub-lineage of SARS-CoV-2 with this E484Q mutation is watched because of the possibility of immune evasion. Some of the variants that do not have other mutations that increase transmissibility will eventually die out, but it is important to monitor any changes in abundance.”

While viruses that contain this mutation may be able to escape the immune response and resist antibodies, vaccination remains our best tool to prevent transmission and severe illness.

Mutations in viruses are not uncommon. RNA viruses, like the virus that cause COVID-19, are more prone to mutation because of their method of copying their genome. Vaccination does not prevent the virus from mutating; however, the virus does not get the opportunity to mutate in the case of infections prevented by vaccination. The higher the percentage of the population that is vaccinated, the fewer chances the virus gets to mutate into new lineages that could be potentially more transmissible or more harmful lineages.

To date, the EVT Viral Genomics and Sequencing Lab has completed genome sequencing for more than 7,000 COVID-19 test samples and is the top submitter in the state of Louisiana to the global GISAID database. LSUHS scientists are still seeing the B.1.617.2 (Delta) SARS-CoV-2 variant as the most prevalent in North Louisiana.

Learn more about the Center of Excellence for Emerging Viral Threats and LSUHS COVID-19 vaccination clinics at www.lsuhs.edu/covid19.

Hayley Arceneaux, a 2016 graduate of the Physician Assistant (PA) program in the School of Allied Health Professions at LSU Health Shreveport, is scheduled to become the youngest American in space on Thursday evening September 15. Arceneaux currently works as a physician assistant at St. Jude.

Arceneaux will be part of “Inspiration4,” named after the upcoming four-member space mission that aims to raise awareness and funds for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, where Arceneaux was cured of childhood cancer in the early 2000s. She will become the first person with a prosthesis in space as well as the first cancer survivor.  The Inspiration4 Mission, comprised of Hayley, Chris Sembroski, Jared Isaacman, and Sian Proctor who will serve as commander, are set to become the first human spaceflight to reach orbit with a crew comprised entirely of private citizens.  Every crew to fly in Earth orbit to date has been led by a government-employed astronaut.

This space mission varies from those in July by Virgin Galactic and Blue Origin – founded by billionaires Richard Branson and Jeff Bezos – as these suborbital missions only reached the edge of space, giving the passengers a few minutes of microgravity and offering brief views of Earth from an altitude of more than 50 miles. The Inspiration4 Mission is a three-day flight in which the Crew Dragon capsule will circle Earth dozens of times before re-entering the atmosphere for a parachute assisted splashdown off the coast of Florida. This will be just the fourth flight of the Crew Dragon capsule with people on-board, following three launches that carried NASA astronauts to the International Space Station.

Advocating for St. Jude is nothing new for Arceneaux, who at 10 years old was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a rare type of bone cancer that doctors discovered in her left leg. Her diagnosis came one week after she earned a black belt in Taekwondo.

Arceneaux and her family then went to the St. Jude campus in Memphis, where she’d soon endure “a very difficult surgery” in which doctors successfully removed the tumor and installed an artificial femur and knee. That led to “a year of very intense chemotherapy,” but Arceneaux described it as “an important time” that “made me who I am.”

Roughly nine months after starting at St. Jude, Arceneaux got even more life-changing news. It came on Jan. 5, when she received a Zoom invitation from the hospital saying, “they had an opportunity for me.” She accepted the Zoom invite and logged in. In the weeks after, she’d refer to it as a day she will “never forget.”  “When I got on the call, they started talking about the background of this mission to space and then they asked me if I wanted to have a seat on board,” she recalled. “Immediately, I said, ‘Yes, yes.’”

Arceneaux met Isaacman on a Zoom call a few days after accepting the mission. He showed her a PowerPoint presentation detailing his idea for the trip “and how he wanted to use it for good to raise money for St. Jude and also to inspire people.” She had to keep the news under wraps for weeks, telling only a few family members and close friends. She told her mother, who said she couldn’t pass up the “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.” She then told her brother and sister-in-law, two aerospace engineers who Arceneaux said “reassured me how safe space travel is.” A few friends said they plan to make T-shirts for the launch.

The launch webcast will start on SpaceX's YouTube channel Wednesday at 3:45 p.m. EDT (1945 GMT) and will also stream here at Space.com, courtesy of SpaceX. The five-hour launch window at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida opens at 8:02 p.m. on Wednesday, August 15.

To interview those who taught Hayley Arceneaux, current physician assistant students inspired by Haley Arceneaux, or to attend the LSU Health Shreveport viewing party in honor of Haley, please contact Lisa Babin. 

Shreveport – In order to fulfill its commitment to provide school-based COVID-19 testing in 32 parishes, LSU Health Shreveport is suspending COVID-19 testing and vaccination for the coming week (September 12-19, 2021) at its North Campus located at 2627 Linwood Avenue. Those seeking testing and vaccines during this time period can access these services at Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport Urgent Care sites, parish health units, other community urgent care clinics and pharmacies.

This temporary change will allow the LSUHS COVID-19 Strike Teams to focus on testing of school-age children who are not eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine and to prepare for the anticipated availability of COVID-19 vaccine booster doses in the coming month. Currently, only those with moderate to severe immune compromise are eligible for a third dose of Pfizer or Moderna COVID-19 vaccine. Additional eligibility for COVID-19 vaccine booster doses has not been defined by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Centers for Disease Control and Preventions (CDC) or the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) at this time. Once authorization for booster doses to other groups is completed, LSUHS and its community partners will disseminate a plan for making booster doses available according to LDH guidelines. Those interested in booster doses should await further information from state and federal officials.

Significant staffing is required to accomplish these critical public health goals. Efforts are underway to add staffing which will allow community testing and vaccines to resume as soon as possible. If you are interested in joining the LSUHS COVID-19 Strike Team, please go to www.lsuhs.edu/covid for details on available positions.

Business Brief - Krista Queen, PhD, has been selected as the Director of Viral Genomics and Surveillance at LSU Health Shreveport effective September 1. Dr. Queen received her Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences from LSU Shreveport and is an alumna of the LSUHS School of Graduate Studies. She completed her PhD in 2012 and went on to be a Postdoctoral Fellow in the Department of Microbiology and Immunology under the mentorship of Dr. Rona S. Scott. Following her postdoctoral fellowship at LSUHS, Dr. Queen was an ORISE Fellow for five years with the Pathogen Discovery and Detection Team in the Gastroenteritis and Respiratory Viruses Lab Branch of the National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases (NCIRD)/Division of Viral Diseases (DVD) at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta, Ga. She then went on to continue her career at CDC as a Microbiologist with the Genomics and Discovery Team in the Respiratory Viruses Branch of DVD/NCIRD.

Dr. Queen brings an extensive amount of knowledge and experience in genomic sequencing, data management, and biosafety to her new role at LSU Health Shreveport, where she will oversee sequencing activities for COVID-19, explore new partnerships for increasing sequencing activities and funding, and work with state and federal partners to enhance the sequencing program at LSUHS. Dr. Queen has been studying the virus that causes COVID-19, SARS-CoV-2, from the beginning of its discovery and was a member of the CDC’s COVID-19 Investigation Team from day one. She most recently worked with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Testing and Diagnostics Working Group where she worked on many projects, including setting up testing and vaccinations at the Lafayette Jockey Lot in Lafayette, La., and getting testing offered by federal partners at LSU Baton Rouge and a testing site in Shreveport.

Dr. Queen is also an associate member of the American Society for Virology, an associate editor for the Journal of Medical Virology and previously served on the Division of Viral Diseases Safety Committee, and as a Plain Language Ambassador for CDC’s National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases.

LSU Health Shreveport was awarded one of three contracts in Louisiana to deliver COVID-19 testing in kindergarten through twelfth grade (K-12). The agreement is in partnership with Louisiana Department of Education (LDOE) and the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) with funding provided by the Center for Disease Control (CDC).

LDH is offering all Louisiana schools (public and private) free COVID-19 testing for the 2021-2022 school year. Experienced testing personnel, supported by the Center for Emerging Viral Threats (CEVT) lab, will complete testing. The contract awarded to LSU Health Shreveport allows any school in thirty-two parishes comprising Public Health Regions 5-8 to opt into the LSUHS COVID-19 K-12 Testing Program. Interested schools should complete LDH’s registration survey at https://ldh.la.gov/k-12covidtesting.

Beginning Wednesday, July 28, Director of COVID-19 Testing and Vaccine Outreach, John Vanchiere MD, PhD, and K-12 Program Engagement Coordinator, Jennifer Deason EdD, will begin hosting weekly informational Zoom sessions each Wednesday at 2 pm. To attend, go to www.lsuhs.edu/covid19/k12-school-testing.

Questions related to the LSUHS COVID-19 K-12 Testing Program should be directed to Jennifer Deason, EdD at 318-675-7588 or Jennifer.deason@lsuhs.edu.

Wayne Nix has been named the new Chief Innovation Officer of Research at LSU Health Shreveport, effective July 15, 2021. Mr. Nix is an experienced entrepreneur with over 20 years of experience in both healthcare and business development and management arenas. He has also led many team innovation strategies while providing mentorship for new entrepreneurs. In his role as Chief Innovation Officer, he will support the Office of Research in managing the innovation process at LSUHS by supporting the growth of existing technologies and collaborations, as well as recognizing and developing new innovative ideas and program opportunities.

He is the President and Co-Founder of RNVENTION®, a veteran certified, Louisiana LLC founded in 2015 to serve as a resource for clinicians and help design, develop, patent, and commercialize technologies that improve healthcare. In his role as a managing partner, he oversees royalty distribution and is responsible for all aspects of startup business formation, operations, intellectual property, product development and manufacturing, sales and marketing. Most recently, Mr. Nix served as the Innovation Program Director for Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady Health System, where he developed a program for the organization to coordinate and accelerate current and future innovation initiatives.

Mr. Nix has a strong education and career background in healthcare, leadership and innovation. After serving for six years with the Louisiana Army National Guard, he earned his associate degree in Respiratory Therapy and bachelor’s degree in Cardiopulmonary Technology from Nicholls State University, followed by an associate degree in Nursing from Our Lady of the Lake University. He also received his Master of Business Administration degree from the University of New Orleans. He also serves as a volunteer for the Department of Biomedical Science at LSU Shreveport, the Louisiana Startup Prize, and Louisiana Tech University’s TOP DOG New Venture program.

NEW ORLEANS—Louisiana State University Health Shreveport (LSUHS) School of Medicine and Dillard University have established a memorandum of understanding (MOU) for the Guaranteed Interview Program at LSU.

The MOU represents the objective of each institution to increase the number of African American and Latinx students from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in Louisiana who apply to the LSU Health Shreveport School of Medicine. The Guaranteed Interview Program certifies that Dillard University students who meet specified criteria included in the MOU will be invited to interview with the admissions committee of the LSU Health Shreveport School of Medicine.

The MOU will be effective July 1, 2021 and shall remain in effect until terminated by either Party. “LSU Health Shreveport is committed to increasing the number of underrepresented students attending and graduating from our medical school. We are working diligently to provide a clear pathway to accomplish that goal,” stated Dr. David Lewis, dean of the LSUHS School of Medicine and interim chancellor. Pre-health advisor and coordinator of summer programs and grants at Dillard, Tracie Thomas, shared similar sentiments. "This MOU also signifies LSU Shreveport School of Medicine's commitment through their Office of Diversity Affairs to enhancing the diversity of its admissions pool by intentionally considering qualified student applicants from our state's HBCUs,” she said.  In 2019, Dillard students attended LSUHS’s HBCU Educational Conference and the MOU will further the LSUHS and Dillard commitment to progressive opportunities for Black and Latinx scholars.

“This MOU is another indication to our pre-health students that we are committed to establishing opportunities that provide them access to medical schools so that they are one step closer to realizing their dreams of becoming doctors,” Dr. Yolanda Page, vice president for academic affairs said in a statement.

LSU Health Shreveport is home to the only medical school in north Louisiana and one of only three in the state. Medical students interact with patients from their very first semester and learn from a combination of lectures, small groups, standardized patient exercises and clinical skills throughout their training. For information about this partnership, please contact Lisa S. Babin, executive director of communication and public affairs at LSUHS (Lisa.babin@lsuhs.edu), Lauren Fox, communications specialist at Dillard University (lfox@dillard.edu) or Eddie Francis, Dillard's director of communications and marketing (efrancis@dillard.edu).

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Dillard University Contacts:

Eddie Francis, Director of Communications & Marketing
efrancis@dillard.edu / 504.816.4024

Dillard University is a historically Black institution that cultivates leaders who live ethically, think and communicate precisely, and act courageously to make the world a better place. Located in New Orleans, Dillard is a private faith-based liberal arts university that offers 22 majors. Founded in 1869, Dillard is Louisiana’s oldest HBCU. Find out more by visiting www.dillard.edu.

NEW YORK | June 9, 2021 – The Rockefeller Foundation announces over $20 million in funding and several non-financial collaborations to help strengthen global capabilities to detect and respond to pandemic threats by strengthening organizations’ abilities to sequence and share genomic information and other data rapidly. Collaborating with over 20 organizations from the public, private, and non-profit sectors, this enhanced network will begin to shape The Rockefeller Foundation’s pandemic prevention institute.

“Fast, accurate genomic sequencing information is the key to ending the Covid-19 pandemic and the suffering it has caused. Yet today only 14 countries, all of which have developed economies, are sequencing five percent or more of their cases and sharing them through global databases,” said Rajiv J. Shah, President of the Rockefeller Foundation. “For that reason, The Rockefeller Foundation is strengthening global sequencing capacity – to end this pandemic for all as soon as possible.”

These initial grants and agreements will expand country and regional capacity for sequencing the genomes of pathogens in sub-Saharan Africa, India and the United States, as well as strengthen a global network of genomic sequencing information that is accessible across the world. They represent the first step in the development of The Rockefeller Foundation’s pandemic prevention institute. The institute will collaborate other pandemic prevention efforts, including the WHO Hub for Pandemic and Epidemic Intelligence and the UK’s Global Pandemic Radar and other pandemic prevention efforts, to identify disease outbreaks early and stop them in the first 100 days.

As Covid-19 variants continue to drive surges of outbreaks, reliable genomic surveillance will help accelerate timely analysis and inform response measures to keep countries one step ahead of the virus and counter emerging threats in the future.

“As the virus evolves, we have to ensure that vaccines, our best tools for stopping it and its deadly toll on individuals, families and communities, remain effective,” said Dr. Rick Bright, Senior Vice President of Pandemic Preparedness at The Rockefeller Foundation. “Rapidly sharing genomic sequencing information from all corners of the globe enables us to see and understand how the virus is changing and adapt our tools accordingly. Without this information we risk the pandemic continuing to wreak havoc on our lives.”

Transforming global capacity to better detect and respond to pandemics

Scaling up global genomic sequencing pipelines
The Rockefeller Foundation is working to expand global genomic sequencing capacity in collaboration with a range of organizations across several key geographies, such as sub-Saharan Africa, the US, and Asia, including:

• GISAID Initiative to accelerate the advancement of its pathogen data sharing platform and to further incentivize the global community of data generators to rapidly share outbreak data to enable real-time public health responses and the development of lifesaving countermeasures such as vaccines and diagnostic tests to detect novel pathogens;
• CSIR-Center for Cellular and Molecular Biology on behalf of a consortium of pathogen genomics sequencing centers to develop targeted sampling strategies, optimize bioinformatics tools, and enable real-time understanding of viral evolution while building a long-term pathogen genomics and surveillance platform across India;
• Stellenbosch University to refine sampling, expand bioinformatics pipelines, catalyze surveillance-informed public health decision-making, and expand local knowledge through fellowships and workforce development programs throughout Africa;
• U.S. Regional Accelerators for Genomic Surveillance to provide strategic coordination and operational support towards improved and diversified regional surveillance efforts across a network of institutions, including the Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Louisiana State University Health Shreveport, University of Florida, and University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Additionally, The Rockefeller Foundation and the World Health Organization are co-leading a working group on genomic surveillance within the ACT-A Diagnostic Pillar. This group will complement the groups set around the WHO Global Risk Monitoring Framework for variants and consultations, and will focus on harmonizing, coordinating and accelerating priority activities across country, regional and global partners by building on existing initiatives and avoiding duplication.

Supporting data and technology globally
Covid-19 demonstrated that the world was ill-prepared to combat a novel pathogen. Before the next pandemic strikes, modernizing the global infrastructure for pandemic preparedness and prevention is critical. The Foundation working in close partnership with other organizations that share this vision to leverage comparative strengths to transform global capacity and is formally collaborating with:

• Concentric by Ginkgo to develop end-to-end biosecurity technologies in order to monitor, detect, and mitigate biological threats by leveraging Ginkgo Bioworks' synthetic biology foundry and unique biological codebase;
• Data.org to develop software and privacy-preserving methods that prevent pandemics though distributed analyses, as part of its Distributed Pandemic Tools program, in collaboration with the Wellcome Trust;
• Development Data Partnership to expand access to novel data from over 25 technology companies, speeding pandemic response and prevention;
• FIND to increase access to diagnostics and sequencing tools to underserved nations, unlock the potential of digital apps and connectivity for real-time collection of data from low-resource settings, and foster sentinel laboratory networks for early disease detections. This work will build on successes from the Access to Covid-19 Tools (ACT) Acceleration diagnostics pillar, in the move to create a permanent diagnostics alliance.
• Global.health, a collaboration between leading institutions including Oxford, Harvard, Northeastern, Boston Children’s Hospital, Georgetown, University of Washington, and Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security with support from Google.org, to build a global hub to enable sharing of trusted and open public health data, starting with Covid-19 line list data;
• Global Fund to strengthen national community health information systems and bring cutting edge analytics on disease reduction, surveillance and outbreak detection that support the accelerated elimination of the existing epidemics of HIV, TB, and Malaria, and provide the key platforms for future pandemic response;
• Illumina to expand existing and introduce new genomic sequencing technologies and informatic solutions that build on local capacity;
• Oxford Nanopore to promote and enable rapid, distributed sequencing for integration into both local and national public health systems, contributing towards timely data sharing through global repositories;
• Scripps Research to expand efforts to create a sensor-based early warning system for Covid-19 and other viral outbreaks through use of wearable technologies such as activity trackers. Efforts will focus on expanding, refining and diversifying Scripps Research’s ongoing DETECT study, which has already enrolled more than 38,000 participants across the United States;
• Thermo Fisher to expand access to sequencing and genetic analysis technologies globally and advocate for genetic data as a critical tool for managing global outbreaks on a local level;
• QIAGEN to collaborate on offering its sample technologies used to isolate and purify nucleic acids, QIAcuity digital PCR instruments for wastewater analysis, and NGS applications combined with QIAGEN Digital Insights bioinformatics for genomic surveillance;
• Verily to bring leading edge data science technology and innovative surveillance modalities like waste-water epidemiology to advance early pathogen detection and inform outbreak response.

Investing in convening platforms to drive coordination and alignment
To ensure alignment across multiple efforts, The Rockefeller Foundation is working with:

• FasterCures, a center of Milken Institute, to convene leaders from the public, private, and nonprofit sectors to galvanize the creation of an early warning system for pandemics that coordinates action on data and insights for response, and proactive financing for pandemic preparedness;
• Viridae, Inc. to drive the development, validation, and adoption of standards for genomic surveillance to improve consistency and quality of public health insights.

Committing to a pandemic-free future
As The Rockefeller Foundation is seeding its initial grants, the G7 is meeting to solidify their plans to prevent future pandemics. The Rockefeller Foundation looks forward to collaborating closely with other pandemic prevention efforts, including the WHO Hub for Pandemic and Epidemic Intelligence and the UK’s Global Pandemic Radar, after the G7 Summit to ensure resources are used most efficiently and effectively, and that all partners are playing to their strengths and not duplicating efforts.

The grants and collaborations announced today are a part of the Foundation’s continuing commitment to end the Covid-19 pandemic, while working to prevent the next one and catalyzing an equitable, sustainable global recovery. They form the building blocks of a pandemic prevention institute that will work alongside other initiatives to identify, analyze and inform responses to emerging outbreaks before they become global catastrophes. This global institute will help bring new, innovative ideas to the forefront of global discussions, enable leaders to better detect and manage outbreaks, and ultimately support a world free of pandemics once and for all.

From its earliest days more than a century ago, The Rockefeller Foundation has led the way to improving health outcomes in the United States and globally. During the Covid-19 pandemic, the Foundation again stepped up to support expanded access to smart testing and vaccines, worked with leaders to cement ideas for scaling genomic sequencing capacity in the United States in “Getting Ahead of the Pandemic: Accelerating National Genomic Surveillance Capacity” and accompanying implementation framework, published actionable recommendations to catalyze the role of testing and tracing within India’s pandemic response system in “The Road Ahead for Smart Testing and Tracing in India.”

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The Rockefeller Foundation
The Rockefeller Foundation is a pioneering philanthropy built on collaborative partnerships at the frontiers of science, technology, and innovation to enable individuals, families, and communities to flourish. We work to promote the well-being of humanity and make opportunity universal. Our focus is on scaling renewable energy for all, stimulating economic mobility, and ensuring equitable access to healthy and nutritious food. For more information, sign up for our newsletter at rockefellerfoundation.org and follow us on Twitter @RockefellerFdn.

Media contact
Ashley Chang
The Rockefeller Foundation
+1 917 373 9530
achang@rockfound.org

May 21, 2021 – LSU Health Shreveport has identified two cases of the novel COVID-19 variant of concern, B.1.617.2, which was first identified in India and is rapidly spreading around the world.

LSU Health Shreveport sequencing also reveals that B.1.1.7, sometimes called “the U.K. variant,” remains dominant in North Louisiana, as is the case in the rest of the United States, as well. 

To date, LSU Health Shreveport’s Center for Emerging Viral Threats (CEVT) has processed more than 331,000 COVID-19 test samples of which 7629 have been positive. LSU Health Shreveport scientists have decoded the genome sequences for over 2640 of these virus samples, which represents 56% of all viral genomic surveillance data from Louisiana.

The emergence of the B.1.617.2 variant in both North Louisiana and North Texas is concerning because it is believed to be more transmissible than earlier variants. Because of its rapid spread around the world, the World Health Organization has classified B.1.617.2 as a Variant of Concern. However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has not yet done so.

The continued increase in variants that transmit more rapidly and may resist antibodies provides a powerful reminder why all eligible citizens should strongly consider getting the vaccine as quickly as possible.  Due to lack of studies on the mortality and severity of newer variants, all precautions should be taken.  Scientists remind us that the best way to stop new variants in their tracks is to get as many people as possible vaccinated, as is the case in Israel, where new cases have plummeted since the country achieved very high rates of vaccination.

While the B.1.617.2 variant may be more transmissible, early lab studies indicate that current COVID-19 vaccines provide good protection. The P.1 variant, first identified in Brazil and Japan, however, is both more transmissible and less susceptible to antibodies that protect against earlier variants, resulting in it being listed as a Variant of Concern by the CDC and WHO.  Two additional cases of the P.1 variant also showed up in the latest batch of samples sequenced by LSU Health Shreveport, bringing the total detected from Louisiana to 18.  “Importantly, even though some of these variants, such as P.1, are able to re-infect people who already had recovered from an earlier case of COVID-19, our current vaccines do a magnificent job protecting people from severe disease,” said Dr. Kamil, associate professor of microbiology and immunology at LSU Health Shreveport.  “Continued public health surveillance through genome sequencing for viral variants remains an important mission of CEVT at LSU Health Shreveport to help protect the region and entire state during this pandemic,” said Dr. Chris Kevil, Vice Chancellor for Research at LSU Health Shreveport.

Due to inclement weather, the LSU Health Shreveport commencement ceremony will be moved indoors. The event will now be held at 1 p.m. on Friday, May 21 on the ground floor of the Shreveport Convention Center, 400 Caddo Street in Downtown. Originally, the event was planned to be held at Independence Stadium.

Graduation for all three professional schools will take place in a combined ceremony. Representative Julia Letlow, 5th Congressional District, providing the keynote address to graduates.

'The risk to your child and to your family is too great'

Baton Rouge, La. (May 20, 2020) — LSU Health Shreveport faculty, Maroun Mhanna, MD, MPH, Chairman, Department of Pediatrics and John A. Vanchiere, MD, PhD, Professor of Pediatrics and Immediate Past President of The Louisiana Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics, along with leading pediatricians from across the state and Louisiana Department of Health State Health Officer Dr. Joseph Kanter have released a public letter urging parents and caregivers to protect their eligible children against COVID-19 with the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. In the letter, pediatricians caring for children throughout Louisiana make the case that the vaccines are the best way for this age group to safely return to school and to summer activities like camp, and vital for the protection of families.

The letter includes signatories representing the Louisiana Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics; LSU Health New Orleans School of Medicine; Tulane University School of Medicine; Ochsner Health; Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Health and LSU Health Shreveport.

The FDA authorized the emergency use of the Pfizer vaccine for this age group last week, and the CDC recommended the use of the vaccine for this age group on May 12.

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About the Louisiana Department of Health 

The Louisiana Department of Health strives to protect and promote health statewide and to ensure access to medical, preventive and rehabilitative services for all state residents. The Louisiana Department of Health includes the Office of Public Health, Office of Aging & Adult Services, Office of Behavioral Health, Office for Citizens with Developmental Disabilities, and Healthy Louisiana (Medicaid). To learn more, visit www.ldh.la.gov or follow us on Twitter, Facebook or our blog. Contact: Sean Ellis 225-342-9010, sean.ellis@la.gov  or Mindy Faciane 225-342-0152, mindy.faciane@la.gov or Kevin Litten 225-219-3542, kevin.litten@la.gov

Thanks to a second grant from the Noel Foundation, the LSU Health Shreveport School of Allied Health Professions is now offering advanced educational opportunities for entry-level professional and residency education programs.  This advanced technology delivered through the Bioness BITS Balance System provides students the opportunity to have simulation and hands on experience with the most advanced technology available in real time. 

“Private grant support, like this grant received from the Noel Foundation, sets us apart when it comes to education, research and service to our community.  We were the first facility in the world to receive this advance technology.   As a premiere Academic Health System in the state, we are so thankful to the Noel Foundation for their commitment to support educational opportunities across the spectrum of higher education.” stated Suzanne Tinsley, PhD, PT, Assistant Vice Chancellor of Institutional Advancement, Parks Professor of Neurological Rehabilitation and Associate Director of the Center for Brain Health – Neuro Rehabilitation. 

Across the industry - from Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, to Speech Therapy - BITS Balance combines visual, cognitive, motor and balance training into one session, providing the patient and therapist with the most efficient technology to date. This combination is increasingly important as clinical research shows that dual-task ability holds potential to improve gait, balance, and cognition in individuals with neurologic disorders.

Specific aspects of the new technology allow providers to determine patients' limits of stability, fall risk, range of motion, body sway and more. The standard digitized balance assessments such as the Berg Balance Scale assessment score patients on a scale of zero to four on various activities, assessing static and dynamic balance ability as well as sitting vs. standing balance ability. In addition, with the Functional Reach Test, assess limits of stability while reaching in standing or sitting position. For an objective measure of postural stability, providers can also utilize the Romberg and Sensory Integration Test. Visit bionesstherapy.com to learn more about Bioness Therapy Integrated System.

The versatile balance tracking and the wide variety of balance therapies, BITS Balance can be used to train patients with varying degrees of mobility and improve outcomes.

Link to Video
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Effective immediately LSU Health Shreveport will begin administering the Pfizer vaccine to those ages 12 and up at all LSUHS vaccination sites. Those wanting to vaccinate children ages 12 to 15 MUST pre-register at www.lsuhs.edu to ensure a signed consent form is completed. Any minors under age 18 will need to have a parent present or provide a signed parental consent form in order to be vaccinated. Those ages 12-17 may ONLY receive the Pfizer vaccine, but those 18 years and up may receive the Pfizer, Moderna or Johnson & Johnson vaccine. LSU Health Shreveport will also be assisting local pediatric clinics to provide the Pfizer vaccine for their patients. Clinic coordinators should contact Dr. John Vanchiere for more information.

Vaccine eligibility continues to include all Louisiana residents AND those from out-of-state, who are 16 years of age and up. LSU Health Shreveport has resumed offering of the Johnson and Johnson vaccine which may be requested at the LSUHS North Campus location when available.

No appointments are needed for first or second doses of the vaccine. 

Individuals should provide ID and insurance information when they arrive at all drive-thru location. Those that meet all qualifications but are without insurance are still eligible to receive the vaccine. While pre-registration is encouraged, it is not required to receive the vaccine. To preregister, go to the LSU Health Shreveport website at www.lsuhs.edu.  

LSU Health Shreveport North Campus 
(Former Chevyland dealership) 2627 Linwood Avenue, Shreveport 
Monday - Friday, May 17 – May 21, from 10 AM – 6 PM / OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
1^ST and 2^nd dose of the Pfizer and Moderna vaccine and Johnson & Johnson

Kingdom Life Church
3089 Hwy 71, Campti / Tuesday, May 18, from 3 PM – 7 PM
Pfizer vaccine

Providence House
814 Cotton Street, Shreveport / Wednesday, May 19, from 9 AM – 11 AM, 4 PM – 6 PM
Johnson & Johnson

Boomtown Casino Hotel
300 Riverside Drive, Bossier City / Thursday, May 20, from 1 PM – 4 PM
Pfizer vaccine

Horseshoe Casino Parking Lot
711 Horseshoe Boulevard, Bossier City / Friday, May 21, from 3 PM – 7 PM
Pfizer vaccine

Williams Memorial CME Temple
7288 Greenwood Road, Shreveport / Saturday, May 22, from 9 AM – 1 PM
Pfizer vaccine

Lane Chapel CME
1007 Norma Street, Shreveport / Saturday, May 22, from 9 AM – 1 PM
Pfizer vaccine

Barksdale Hooter Park
100 Hooter Park Drive, Bossier City / Saturday, May 22, from 2 PM – 5 PM
Pfizer vaccine

PRESS RELEASE & INVITATION TO MONDAY PRESS CONFERENCE

SHREVEPORT – Thanks to a second grant from the Noel Foundation, the LSU Health Shreveport School of Allied Health Professions is now offering advanced educational opportunities for entry-level professional and residency education programs.  This advanced technology delivered through the Bioness BITS Balance System provides students the opportunity to have simulation and hands on experience with the most advanced technology available in real time. 

“Private grant support, like this grant received from the Noel Foundation, sets us apart when it comes to education, research and service to our community.  We were the first facility in the world to receive this advance technology.   As a premiere Academic Health System in the state, we are so thankful to the Noel Foundation for their commitment to support educational opportunities across the spectrum of higher education.” stated Suzanne Tinsley, PhD, PT, Assistant Vice Chancellor of Institutional Advancement, Parks Professor of Neurological Rehabilitation and Associate Director of the Center for Brain Health – Neuro Rehabilitation. 

A Press Conference providing details and a demonstration of the Bioness BITS Balance System will occur at 11:30 am, Monday, May 17 at the School of Allied Health Professions Outpatient Clinic located at 1450 Claiborne Avenue.  Students and patients will be available for interviews.  Please RSVP to Lisa Babin at lisa.babin@lsuhs.edu or at 318-675-8769 if you will be attending the press conference.

An information packet on the Bioness BITS Balance System will be provided at the Press Conference.

The LSU Board of Supervisors has approved the Center of Academic Excellence in Patient Centered Rehabilitation (CAE-PaCeR) in the School of Allied Health Professions (SAHP) of LSU Health Shreveport (LSUHS). The Center of Academic Excellence for Patient Centered Rehabilitation (CAE-PaCeR) will establish the necessary infrastructure to deliver patient-centered rehabilitation in an academic culture of excellence for clinical learning, innovation, and collaboration.  With nearly 50 years of multi-disciplinary service to the communities of Northwest Louisiana, the academic and clinical programs providing a strong foundation for the Center would include:

4 Academic Programs

• Doctor of Physical Therapy                              
• Communications Disorders – Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology
• PhD Program in Rehabilitation Sciences
• Master of Occupational Therapy

3 Clinics

• SAHP Faculty Rehabilitation Clinic
• Mollie E. Webb Speech and Hearing Center
• SAHP Children’s Center

3 Physical Therapy Residencies

• Orthopaedic Physical Therapy Residency
• Neurologic Physical Therapy Residency
• Wound Management Residency

The newly approved center will provide and promote advanced practice rehabilitation clinical services and blended learning experiences to achieve the following:

TO TEACH
To provide unrivaled education and mentoring for aspiring rehabilitation professionals and other collaborative health disciplines in order to foster excellence in academic, research, and clinical rehabilitation endeavors.

TO HEAL
To engage multi-disciplinary collaborative teams in order to prioritize team-based, patient-centered health delivery and to model and expand these integrated, value-based practices for the citizens of Louisiana.

TO DISCOVER
To conduct and disseminate translational research to advance the science and clinical management for populations in need of rehabilitation services, while stimulating innovation and the critical thinking of future providers.

TO ADVANCE DIVERSITY
To enhance the diversity in these professions by creating opportunities for underrepresented minority (URM) students to participate in experiential learning in either the clinic, classroom, or research laboratory in order to consider, apply, and succeed in these professions.

A team of scientists and clinicians at LSU Health Shreveport, collaborating across the Centers for Brain Health and Cardiovascular Diseases and Sciences, had their groundbreaking findings on a new blood biomarker for Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia published in the prestigious “Alzheimer’s & Dementia, The Journal of the Alzheimer’s Association”.  LSUHS faculty Drs. Elizabeth Disbrow, Chris Kevil, Steve Alexander, and Karen Stokes were joined by colleagues from the Vascular Medicine Institute at the University of Pittsburg Medical Center and the Department of Computer Science at Louisiana State University in Shreveport.

There is growing appreciation for the important role cerebrovascular disease plays in the development of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD).  The newly identified plasma biomarker for ADRD, hydrogen sulfide, is already a known biomarker for cardiovascular disease. The team used cutting edge analytical biochemical methods developed at LSU Health Shreveport in the laboratory of Dr. Chris Kevil to measure plasma hydrogen sulfide metabolites, MRI to evaluate indicators of microvascular disease as well as cognitive testing to determine biomarker performance.    Hydrogen sulfide and its metabolites were clearly linked to ADRD, which had not been previously reported or shown. Furthermore, cognitive and microvascular disease indicators were also correlated with hydrogen sulfide levels.  Overall hydrogen sulfide levels were the strongest indicator of ADRD and mediated the relationship between cognitive dysfunction and the amount of brain lesion. These findings clearly indicate that hydrogen sulfide is dysregulated in dementia, providing a potential biomarker for early diagnosis, disease progression and intervention in ARDS.

Because the rise in the prevalence of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is becoming a national health crisis, identifying and treating its underlying causes is a critical health challenge. While amyloid “plaques” and Tau “tangles” play mechanistic roles in AD, cardiovascular complications are also significant risk factors for dementia. The current thinking is that cerebrovascular dysfunction occurs early in ADRD, and therefore may be an important early diagnostic marker and a fruitful therapeutic target, making this newly identified biomarker highly clinically significant.

This work was supported by an Institutional Development Award from the National Institutes of General Medical Sciences of the National Institutes of Health under grant number 3P2012130701A1S1 and HL149264

Interviews are available by request with those contributing to this publication.
 

LSU Health Shreveport leadership, faculty, staff, students and community supporters gathered to honor researchers, scientists and community members at the third annual Research Celebration held on Thursday, April 29.

In the past year, LSUHS delivered a significant pandemic response tied directly to research as well as obtained significant NIH and other extramural funding along with creation of life-saving medical devices and breakthrough discoveries. These individuals were honored by with the Office of Research Excellence Awards. Dr. Chris Kevil, Vice Chancellor for Research, also highlighted new projects and exciting developments on the horizon. 

Office of Research Excellence Award Winners:

• Dr. Andrew Yurochko received the Excellence in Extramural Funding Award.
• Dr. Steve Conrad and Dr. Keith Scott received the Excellence in Translational Research Award.
• Dr. Nicholas Goeders and Dr. Chris Schmoutz received the Excellence in Innovation Award.
• Dr. Jeremy Kamil and Dr. Rona Scott received the Scientific Research Impact in Basic Science Award and Dr. Angela Cornelius received the Scientific Research Impact in Clinical Science Award.
• Dr. G. E. Ghali, Mr. Bill Comegys, Mr. Matthew St. Amant, and Mr. Ray Lasseigne received the Community Champion Award for their role in securing & facilitating the donation of the former CHRISTUS Schumpert property.

Research at LSU Health Shreveport by the Numbers:

$438,000: Total Licensing Income FY21 to date

$6,875,864: Total Licensing Income FY14-20

171: Number of U.S. patents issued

118: Number of International patents issued

Ranked 2^nd in the LSU System for tech transfer

Home to six research centers (* denotes Center of Excellence)

• Center of Excellence for Arthritis and Rheumatology (CEAR)*
• Feist-Weiller Cancer Center (FWCC)*
• Center for Cardiovascular Diseases and Sciences (CCDS)*
• Center for Brain Health (CBH)
• Louisiana Addiction Research Center (LARC)
• Center of Excellence for Emerging Viral Threats (CEVT)*

On Thursday, April 22^nd, the LSU Health Shreveport Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, in conjunction with the Louisiana Addiction Research Center (LARC), was proud to offer the inaugural LARC Mental Health Summit with a Focus on Suicide Prevention. The virtual summit offered up to 7.75 free hours of CME/CEU. A variety of panelists discussed mental health issues that were particularly relevant to healthcare workers and physicians, with a focus on suicide prevention and the mental health consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic. Attendees of the virtual meeting received resources and guidance on topics such as stress management, social isolation, and substance use.

To date, this virtual CME conference was the largest in the history of LSU Health Shreveport, maxing out all available attendance slots. The informative summit was made available to a diverse demographic that included health care providers, young adults interested in health care professions, seasoned practitioners, LPCs, MSWs, Allied Health Professionals, and students. For more information on resources provided and other LARC events, please visit their website at https://www.lsuhs.edu/centers/louisiana-addiction-research-center/mental-health-summit.

March 26, 2021 - A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) establishing a Guaranteed Interview Program between Louisiana State University Health Shreveport School of Medicine and Southern University and A&M College and Southern University at New Orleans was signed at Southern University on March 26.

The MOU represents the desire of both parties to increase the number of African American and Hispanic students from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in Louisiana who apply to the LSU Health Shreveport School of Medicine. The goal is for these students to subsequently be accepted for admission and graduate from medical school.

The Guaranteed Interview Program certifies that Southern University students who meet specified criteria included in the MOU will be invited to interview with the Admissions Committee of the LSU Health Shreveport School of Medicine. The MOU is effective July 1, 2021 and shall remain in effect until terminated by either Party. “LSU Health Shreveport is honored to have the opportunity to propel our message that every student is family in our learning communities. We are committed to increasing the percentage of African American and Hispanic students who apply, matriculate, and ultimately graduate from our institution,” said Dr. G.E. Ghali, chancellor, LSU Health Shreveport School of Medicine.

“Southern University welcomes this opportunity to partner with the LSU Health Shreveport School of Medicine to increase the number of African-American and Hispanic students entering medical school. This effort will serve to further encourage a viable pathway into medicine for deserving students of color while expanding a physician workforce that is more representative of the state and nation in terms of diversity,” said Dr. Ray L. Belton, president-chancellor, Southern University System.

Those signing the agreement were: LSU Health Shreveport Chancellor G.E. Ghali, DDS, MD, Southern University and A&M College Chancellor Ray L. Belton, PhD, Southern University at New Orleans Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs David Adeboyge, PhD, Dean of the School of Medicine at LSU Health Shreveport, David Lewis, MD, and Chair of Admission for the LSU Health Shreveport School of Medicine, Shane Barton, MD.

Additional university representatives in attendance were: Toni Thibeaux, PhD, Assistant Dean of Admissions and Vice-Chancellor for External Affairs Markey Pierre, DBA, and representing Southern University is Robyn Merrick, PhD, Vice President for External Affairs.

Throughout this past year, LSU Health Shreveport’s Center of Excellence for Emerging Viral Threats, comprised of nationally recognized virologists, immunologists, support staff, students plus  50 new employees, have worked tirelessly to deliver a robust pandemic response positioning north Louisiana favorably during the COVID-19 crisis.  Attached are highlights of what the Center of Excellence for Emerging Viral Threats has accomplished during its’ first year.
→ CEEVT Fact Sheet of Accomplishments

SHREVEPORT, March 19, 2021 – Today 112 LSU Health Shreveport School of Medicine students learned where they will go for their residency training. On Monday, students received a notification from the National Resident Matching Program of the Association of American Medical Colleges, or the NRMP®, confirming if they matched with a residency program. Match Day is the culmination of years of educational dedication and months of interviews with clinical programs around the US. This year interviews were held virtually due to the pandemic. Students list their choices for residency programs, and institutions list their choices of students to fill them. A computer algorithm then simultaneously takes the list of programs ranked by the student and the list of students ranked by the residency programs to “match” or fill available program positions.

At medical schools nationwide, Match Day ceremonies are held in tandem on the third Friday in March. The landmark event is a career-defining moment when students and their families discover which residency program they matched with and where they will spend the next three to seven years completing their graduate medical education.

24.2% of the graduating class of 2021 will be staying at LSU Health Shreveport for their residency with 38.3% of the class pursuing their residency at either LSU Health Shreveport or New Orleans. 48% percent of the graduating students will be staying in Louisiana, which is critical with Louisiana facing a significant shortfall in the number of physicians need to meet the healthcare demand of the state. Also of note is that 42.8% are entering into primary care residencies comprised of Internal Medicine, OB/GYN, Pediatrics, Family Medicine and Medicine-Pediatrics. LSUHS students also matched with prestigious programs around the country including George Washington University, Emory, University of Indiana, UCLA, Baylor Scott and White, and University of Alabama.

Dr. David Lewis, Dean of the School of Medicine at LSU Health Shreveport stated, “Our medical school did incredibly well in the Match with 98% of our 115 students matching. These results are significantly better than many medical schools across the nation which reflects the commitment by our faculty to help each student achieve their personal best.”

Match Day also reveals newly minted physicians coming into the Shreveport-Bossier City area. LSU Health Shreveport School of Medicine successfully filled all 139 residency positions available. The new group of LSUHS residents will be welcomed to Shreveport in July, where they will train at Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport Academic Medical Center, St. Mary Medical Center and Monroe Medical Center along with other partner hospitals.

In total, the NRMP reported that 12,925 active applicants competed for 11,767 fellowship positions from 5,110 programs, making the number of applicants in the 2021 match through NMRP the largest on record resulting in 1,158 graduating medical students did not match. There was an 18% increase in US students receiving a traditional medical degree, and a 72% increase in US students acquiring an osteopathic degree. The LSU Health Shreveport Class of 2021 will receive their Doctorate of Medicine on May 22.

“I am delighted we were able to hold an in-person Match Day ceremony this year to celebrate the tremendous accomplishments of the Class of 2021. It was extremely disappointing not only to the students and their families in 2020 for Match Day to be held virtually but to all those who have invested in the lives of these students over their four years. I congratulate each student who had a successful match today and applaud all our faculty and staff for the role they played in this important milestone in the lives of these students,” shared G. E. Ghali, DDS, MC,FACS, FRCS (Ed), Chancellor of LSU Health Shreveport.

Don’t miss these important milestone! Reserved parking for media near the clubhouse. Student interviews available upon request. Please RSVP to jjerni@lsuhsc.edu.

WHAT: LSU Health Shreveport Match Day Ceremony
WHO: School of Medicine Class of 2021
WHERE: David Toms 265 Academy COVID-19 Precautions and distancing will be followed, including the wearing of masks.
WHEN: Friday, March 19, 2021 at 10:30 a.m.
ADDITIONAL DETAILS: Match Day is the culmination of months of interviewing for graduating medical students with academic health centers and hospitals that have residency programs. Students list their choices for residency programs, and the institutions list their choices of students to fill them. All selections are fed into a computer and “matches” are made. Match Day is when the students and their families find out where they matched and where they will go to complete their graduate medical education. Match Day ceremonies will happen at the same time nationwide. The process is coordinated by the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP).

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WHAT: LSU Health Shreveport White Coat Ceremony
WHO: School of Medicine Class of 2023 Keynote Speakers: Dr. Shane Barton, MD, Professor and Chairman of Orthopaedic Surgery Thomas Norris MD Endowed Professor, LSU Health Shreveport WHERE: David Toms 265 Academy COVID-19 Precautions and distancing will be followed, including the wearing of masks.
WHEN: Saturday, March 20, 2021 at 10 a.m.
ADDITIONAL DETAILS: The white coat, a symbol of the medical profession and its scientific connection, will be granted to second-year School of Medicine students in a ceremony this Saturday. The ceremony is a rite of passage for medical students and symbolizes the transition from classroom to clinical learning. In addition to white coat presentations, select recipients will be inducted in to the Gold Humanism Honor Society. The Gold Humanism Honor Society was established in 2002 by the Arnold P. Gold Foundation with the purpose of recognizing medical students, residents and faculty who practice patient-centered care by modeling the qualities of excellence, compassion, altruism, respect and empathy.

March 8, 2021 – The LSU Board of Supervisors voted unanimously on Friday to approve the memorandum of understanding (MOU) to expand the Doctor of Nursing Practice Nurse Anesthesia Program (DNP-NA) at LSU Health New Orleans by increasing the class size to accommodate approximately ten additional students who will conduct their clinical training at LSU Health Shreveport.

The MOU seeks to remedy the severe shortage of nurses in Louisiana by expanding the availability of undergraduate and graduate nursing programs in North Louisiana. LSU Health New Orleans and LSU Health Shreveport see congruence in their respective missions and seek the clear opportunity to cooperate and collaborate with each other, leveraging their respective skills and resources, creating a synergy that will advance their respective mission and goals. 

“LSU Health Shreveport looks forward to working with our sister institution in South Louisiana to positively impact statewide nursing shortages. We are confident that working together we can lessen the current challenges on health care systems”, stated Chancellor G. E. Ghali 

January 29, 2021 - The School of Allied Health Professionals at LSU Health Shreveport has been awarded an $11,500 grant from the Noel Foundation, Inc.  The grant was presented at a check presentation in front of the Noel Memorial Library this week, and was attended by members of the Noel Foundation Board of Directors.

This is the second grant awarded to the School of Allied Health by the Noel Foundation, and will benefit the school’s Mindful of our Mission to Heal project for the Neurorehabilitation Program. This funding will purchase a state-of-the-art Bioness Integrated Therapy System (BITS) Balance Accessory unit that will interface with the school’s current BITS Cognitive Training system. This equipment will be used to enhance teaching, research, and service in the area of falls assessment and prevention, particularly in the elderly population. Students, clinical residents, and faculty will use this equipment for advanced learning, increased research opportunities, and improved care to the community.

The Neurorehabilitation Program, within the Faculty Rehabilitation Clinic, has delivered life changing care to thousands of neurologically impaired patients since 1987.  The purpose of the Mindful of Our Mission to Heal project is to implement “current best practice” technology capabilities within the Neurorehabilitation Program for the purposes of teaching, research and service to the community. 

“We are thankful for this funding made possible by the Noel Foundation. This equipment will greatly improve the education experience for our students by having advance technology available for our graduate students and residents to learn. It will also aid in the recruitment of additional students to our academic programs.”, said Dr. Suzanne Tinsley, Assistant Vice Chancellor of Institutional Advancement, Associate Professor of Rehabilitation Sciences.

The Noel Foundation was established in 1972 as a non-profit organization that supports education, cultural arts, and the community in Shreveport, Louisiana. Their aim is to grow Shreveport both culturally and academically.

About the School of Allied Health Professions at LSU Health Shreveport

The School of Allied Health Professions is comprised of eight academic programs, three post-professional residency programs for physical therapists who hold a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree, and three specialized clinics: the Children’s Center which provides developmental and psychological testing and treatment for children, Mollie E. Webb Speech and Hearing Center which offers highly specialized speech and hearing care, and the Rehabilitation Clinic which provides state-of-the-art occupational, physical, and speech-language therapy.

Photo Link. Pictured from left to right:

Dr. Suzanne Tinsley, Associate Professor of Rehabilitation Sciences, Assistant Vice Chancellor of Institutional Advancement at LSU Health Shreveport, Mr. Gilbert R. Shanley, Mr. Merritt B. Chastain- Board President,

Mr. Delton Smith - Board Vice President, Mr. Stacy Williams, Mr. Kevin Flood, President of the LSU Health Sciences Foundation of Shreveport & Dr. Sharon Dunn, Dean of the School of Allied Health Professions

BUSINESS BRIEFS - DATE: January 28, 2021

Keith Scott MD, MSc, FCCM is the newly appointed Medical Director for the Office of Clinical Trial Services at LSU Health Shreveport. Combining his experience not only as a principal investigator on numerous clinical trials but also as a critical care physician for over thirty years, Dr. Scott will provide medical support and oversight for all clinical trials conducted at LSU Health Shreveport. He will also supply input on expanding clinical trial research at LSU Health Shreveport by facilitating investigator-initiated clinical trials, determining feasibility of proposed clinical trials, and seeking new opportunities for public and private collaborations that will benefit the citizens of this region.

Dr. Scott received his undergraduate degree in hospital administration from Florida Atlantic University. He received a medical degree from the University Eugenio Maria De Hostos and completed a residency in Internal Medicine at Robert Wood Johnson University Medical School in Trenton, New Jersey. He completed fellowships in Infectious Diseases at Albany Medical College and in Critical Care at LSU Health Shreveport. Later, he earned a degree in Global Health and Infectious Disease from the University of Edinburg. He also has a Graduate Certificate in Epidemiology from the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill. Dr. Scott is board certified in Internal Medicine, Internal Medicine-Critical Care, and Neurocritical Care. He is currently the Director of Critical Care Research and a Professor of Pediatrics, Medicine and Surgery.

PRESS RELEASE- January 15, 2021

Today the Louisiana Board of Supervisors supported the requested expansion by LSU Health Shreveport and LSU Health New Orleans to expand dental services throughout Louisiana. These institutions feel strongly that the citizens of Louisiana need unrestricted access to oral health services (OHS) for public health, safety and wellness.  The LSU Health New Orleans School of Dentistry and LSU Health School of Medicine-Shreveport expansion initiative, in partnership with Ochsner-LSU Health Shreveport (OLHS), serves to increase general dental services and limited specialty-level dental services to the citizens of the various regions of Louisiana by providing safe, affordable and quality OHS.

The proposed expansion report was spurred by Senate Resolution 190 of the 2019 Regular Session and in response to the Board of Regents study related to that resolution.   

There is a strong documented need for OHS services in central and northern Louisiana. There are an average of 3,397 citizens per general dental practice in Louisiana, which is higher than the current US average of 3,018. There is an average of 6,936 citizens per specialty practice in Louisiana, which is higher than the current US average of 5,783.

Approximately 87.5% of Louisiana is designated as a Dental Health Professional Shortage Area (DHPSA). The state suffers from the uneven distribution of oral healthcare workers with the greatest concentrations in larger metropolitan areas. Of the 64 Louisiana parishes, 3 have no dentist and 23 have 1 to 5 dentists with the highest concentrations in parishes of the northern and central portions of the state.

The proposed plan to expanded oral health services requires an expanded footprint by LSU Heath via dental annexes in partnership with regional hospitals, medical centers, FQHCs and RHCs. The annexes will be strategically placed to allow all Louisiana citizens access to safe and quality dental care. The timeline for accomplishing this goal is structured over three phases over the next 5 years.

Contacts:  
Lisa S. Babin
Executive Director of Communications, Public Affairs & Development
318-675-8769 /   Lbabi6@lsuhsc.edu

Shreveport – The Center of Excellence for Emerging Viral Threats (CEVT) at LSU Health Shreveport continues to offer COVID-19 Vaccine booster shot to eligible Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine recipients who have completed their initial series at least 6 months ago:

• 65 years and older
• 18+ who have underlying medical conditions
• 18+ who work in high-risk settings. These include but are not limited to healthcare workers, dentists, teachers & their support staff, postal workers, first responders, etc.
• 18+ who live in high-risk settings

Data shows that a Pfizer-BioNTech booster shot increased the immune response in trial participants who finished their primary series 6 months earlier.

LSU Health Shreveport will continue administering Pfizer booster vaccines this week at the North Campus site (Old Chevyland) located at 2627 Linwood Avenue from 10 am to 6pm in. New community vaccines sites are also available this week.

No appointments are needed to receive the booster vaccine or first and second doses. COVID-19 testing is also available in select locations as noted below. Individuals should provide ID and insurance information when they arrive at any LSUHS vaccination site. Those without insurance are still eligible to receive the vaccine. Pre-registration is required if you would like to receive a booster shot from LSU Health Shreveport but received your previous vaccinations from a different location. Please pre-register at www.lsuhs.edu/covid19/vaccine.

LSUHS COVID TESTING & VACCINATION SITES – October 13-16

LSU Health Shreveport North Campus – 2627 Linwood Avenue, Shreveport (Former Chevyland dealership)
Monday – Friday from 10 AM – 6 PM; Testing – rapid and PCR, 1st or 2nd doses of vaccine, and booster shots are available.

Thursday, October 14 - First Presbyterian Church, 900 Jordan Street – 4-7 pm; Testing, 1 st or 2nd doses of vaccine, and booster shots are available.

Friday, October 15 – Essence Vax and Vibe, Shreveport River Park, 601 Clyde Fant Parkway – 3-6pm. 1st or 2nd doses of vaccine, and booster shots are available.

Saturday, October 16 – Dreams Barber and Beauty Shop, 1850 Martin Luther King Drive 11 am-2pm. 1 st or 2nd doses of vaccine, and booster shots are available.

Shreveport – The Center of Excellence for Emerging Viral Threats (CEVT) at LSU Health Shreveport is offering the COVID-19 Vaccine booster shot to eligible Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine recipients who have completed their initial series at least 6 months ago:

• 65 years and older
• 18+ who have underlying medical conditions
• 18+ who work in high-risk settings
• 18+ who live in high-risk settings

Immunocompromised and high-risk individuals are defined as:

• Been receiving active cancer treatment for tumors or cancers of the blood
• Received an organ transplant and are taking medicine to suppress the immune system
• Received a stem cell transplant within the last 2 years or take immunosuppressants
• Moderate or severe primary immunodeficiency (DiGeorge syndrome, Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome)
• Advanced or untreated HIV infection
• Active treatment with high-dose corticosteroids or other drugs that may suppress immune response
• Other conditions which cause moderate or severe immunosuppression similar to the above conditions

To date, LSU Health Shreveport has administered over 89,500 vaccines. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, data shows that a Pfizer-BioNTech booster shot increased the immune response in trial participants who finished their primary series 6 months earlier. With an increased immune response, people should have improved protection against COVID-19, including the Delta variant.

While LSU Health Shreveport will be administering Pfizer booster vaccines this week at the North Campus site (Old Chevyland) located at 2627 Linwood Avenue from 10 am to 6pm, an opportunity to receive a booster vaccine in an expedited venue will be announced within the next few days.  The new, high-capacity location is being opened to deliver shorter wait times for all vaccines, as well as COVID tests.

No appointments are needed for to receive the booster vaccine. Individuals should provide ID and insurance information when they arrive at any LSUHS vaccination site. Those without insurance are still eligible to receive the vaccine. If you would like to receive a booster shot from LSU Health Shreveport but received your previous vaccinations from a different location, please pre-register at www.lsuhs.edu/covid19/vaccine.

September 24 – The Center of Excellence for Emerging Viral Threats (CEVT) continues to offer COVID-19 testing and vaccinations Monday through Friday, 10 AM to 6 PM, at the LSU Health Shreveport North Campus (Old Chevyland) located at 2627 Linwood Avenue. COVID testing and vaccinations will continue to be offered exclusively at the North Campus location for the remainder of September.

To date, LSU Health Shreveport has processed more than 417,000 PCR test samples and administered over 89,500 vaccines.

Individuals ages 12 and up are eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine. Those wanting to vaccinate children ages 12 to 15 MUST pre-register at www.lsuhs.edu. Minors under age 18 will need to have a parent present or provide a signed parental consent form to be vaccinated. Youth ages 12 to 17 may ONLY receive the Pfizer vaccine, but those 18 years and up may receive the Pfizer, Moderna or Johnson & Johnson vaccine. No appointments are needed for first or second doses of the vaccine. Individuals should provide ID and insurance information when they arrive at any LSUHS vaccination site. Those that are without insurance are still eligible to receive the vaccine. For a full schedule and to preregister, go to the LSU Health Shreveport website at www.lsuhs.edu.

A third vaccine shot, or booster shot, is available at the LSUHS North Campus location only to eligible individuals that are immunocompromised or at high risk. If you would like to receive a booster shot from LSU Health Shreveport and received your previous vaccinations from a different location, please pre-register at www.lsuhs.edu/covid19/vaccine.

Immunocompromised and high-risk individuals are defined as:

• Been receiving active cancer treatment for tumors or cancers of the blood
• Received an organ transplant and are taking medicine to suppress the immune system
• Received a stem cell transplant within the last 2 years or take immunosuppressants
• Moderate or severe primary immunodeficiency (such as DiGeorge syndrome, Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome)
• Advanced or untreated HIV infection
• Active treatment with high-dose corticosteroids or other drugs that may suppress immune response
• Other conditions which cause moderate or severe immunosuppression similar to the above conditions

LSUHS COVID TESTING & VACCINATION SITE    

LSU Health Shreveport North Campus – 2627 Linwood Avenue, Shreveport           
(Former Chevyland dealership), Monday – Friday from 10 AM – 6 PM; Testing, 1^st or 2^nd doses of vaccine, and booster shots are available.

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CONTACT: 
Jazmin Jernigan, Public Relations Coordinator
Office: 318-675-8789, Cell: 318-716-8606, jazmin.jernigan@lsuhs.edu

Over 82,000 vaccinations and 396,000 COVID-19 tests have been administered to date. LSU Health Shreveport continues to offer both COVID-19 vaccinations AND testing to the public each Monday through Friday from 10 AM to 6PM at the LSUHS North Campus site (Old Chevyland) located at 2627 Linwood Avenue. Registration is not needed for COVID testing. A CEVT Strike Team member will call with results within 72 hours. A printout of results may be picked up or mailed to the provided address upon request. Expedited COVID-19 testing is available at the LSUHS North Campus, Monday through Wednesday from 10AM to 12PM.

Any individuals ages 12 and up are eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine. Those wanting to vaccinate children ages 12 to 15 MUST pre-register at www.lsuhs.edu. Minors under age 18 will need to have a parent present or provide a signed parental consent form to be vaccinated. Youth ages 12 to 17 may ONLY receive the Pfizer vaccine, but those 18 years and up may receive the Pfizer, Moderna or Johnson & Johnson vaccine. Local pediatric clinic coordinators may contact Dr. John Vanchiere if interested in partnering with LSU Health Shreveport to provide the Pfizer vaccine to their patients. No appointments are needed for first or second doses of the vaccine. 

If you would like to get a booster shot from LSU Health Shreveport and received your previous dose or doses from a different location, please pre-register at www.lsuhs.edu/covid19/vaccine. Currently, CDC is recommending that moderately to severely immunocompromised people receive an additional dose. This includes people who have:

• Been receiving active cancer treatment for tumors or cancers of the blood
• Received an organ transplant and are taking medicine to suppress the immune system
• Received a stem cell transplant within the last 2 years or take medicine to suppress the immune system
• Moderate or severe primary immunodeficiency (such as DiGeorge syndrome, Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome)
• Advanced or untreated HIV infection
• Active treatment with high-dose corticosteroids or other drugs that may suppress your immune response
• Other conditions which cause moderate or severe immunosuppression similar to the above conditions

People should talk to their healthcare provider about their medical condition, and whether getting an additional dose is appropriate for them. Prescription or notation from a physician or other prescriber is not necessary at this time. Patients with one of the above conditions who wish to receive an additional dose of Pfizer or Moderna vaccine may self-attest to their condition by completing and signing this form:  https://ldh.la.gov/assets/oph/Center-CP/HANs/HANS21-58Attachment-3rdDoseAttestationForm.pdf.

CDC does not recommend additional doses or booster shots for any other population at this time.

Individuals should provide ID and insurance information when they arrive at any LSUHS vaccination site. Those that are without insurance are still eligible to receive the vaccine. For a full schedule and to preregister, go to the LSU Health Shreveport website at www.lsuhs.edu.  

LSUHS COVID TESTING SITES    

LSU Health Shreveport North Campus – 2627 Linwood Avenue, Shreveport           
(Former Chevyland dealership)
Monday – Friday from 10 AM – 6 PM 
Tests taken before 12 noon receive results within 48 hours via telephone.

 LSUHS COVID VACCINATION SITES

SUNDAY, AUGUST 29
Sacred Heart Catholic Church – 4736 Lyba St., Shreveport, 12:15 PM – 3 PM; Pfizer vaccine

MONDAY - FRIDAY
LSU Health Shreveport North Campus – 2627 Linwood Avenue, Shreveport
(Former Chevyland dealership)
Dates recur each week, Monday – Friday, from 10 AM – 6 PM 
1^st and 2^nd dose of the Pfizer and Moderna vaccine and Johnson & Johnson

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 1
Northwestern State University (NSU) – 1800 Line Ave, Shreveport, 1 PM – 3:00 PM; Pfizer vaccine

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 2
Peaceful Rest Baptist Church – 8200 St. Vincent Avenue, Shreveport, 4 PM – 7 PM; Pfizer vaccine

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 3
Horseshoe Casino – 711 Horseshoe Boulevard, Bossier City, 4 PM – 8 PM; Pfizer vaccine

LSU Health Shreveport currently offers the third dose of the COVID-19 vaccine (COVID-19 booster shot) at all LSUHS vaccination sites, including the North Campus (old Chevyland) located at 2627 Linwood Ave. Individuals that have received their first and second COVID-19 vaccines from locations other than LSU Health Shreveport should pre-register at https://redcap.link/LSU-PUBLIC-VACCINE-SURVEY prior to receiving the third vaccine at any LSUHS vaccination site. Individuals that received their first or second vaccination at a LSU Health Shreveport site do not need to pre-register. 

In a visit to the LSU Health Shreveport campus, LSU System President, William Tate IV, encouraged students to “take advantage of the tremendous opportunity” to get vaccinated right now before lines get longer when the FDA approves the vaccine and boosters become available to everyone. Pre-registration is a helpful step in minimizing wait times due to the convergence of those getting first time shots and those seeking the third shot. 

For the full schedule of vaccination and testing dates and locations, visit www.lsuhs.edu.

August 21 – Over 82,000 vaccinations and 396,000 COVID-19 tests have been administered to date. LSU Health Shreveport continues to offer both COVID-19 vaccinations AND testing to the public each Monday through Friday from 10 AM to 6PM at the LSUHS North Campus site (Old Chevyland) located at 2627 Linwood Avenue. Registration is not needed for COVID testing. A CEVT Strike Team member will call with results within 72 hours. A printout of results may be picked up or mailed to the provided address upon request. Expedited COVID-19 testing is available at the LSUHS North Campus, Monday through Wednesday from 10AM to 12PM.

Any individuals ages 12 and up are eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine. Those wanting to vaccinate children ages 12 to 15 MUST pre-register at www.lsuhs.edu. Minors under age 18 will need to have a parent present or provide a signed parental consent form to be vaccinated. Youth ages 12 to 17 may ONLY receive the Pfizer vaccine, but those 18 years and up may receive the Pfizer, Moderna or Johnson & Johnson vaccine. Local pediatric clinic coordinators may contact Dr. John Vanchiere if interested in partnering with LSU Health Shreveport to provide the Pfizer vaccine to their patients. No appointments are needed for first or second doses of the vaccine. 

If you would like to get a booster shot from LSU Health Shreveport and received your previous dose or doses from a different location, please pre-register at www.lsuhs.edu/covid19/vaccine. Currently, CDC is recommending that moderately to severely immunocompromised people receive an additional dose. This includes people who have:

• Been receiving active cancer treatment for tumors or cancers of the blood
• Received an organ transplant and are taking medicine to suppress the immune system
• Received a stem cell transplant within the last 2 years or take medicine to suppress the immune system
• Moderate or severe primary immunodeficiency (such as DiGeorge syndrome, Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome)
• Advanced or untreated HIV infection
• Active treatment with high-dose corticosteroids or other drugs that may suppress your immune response
• Other conditions which cause moderate or severe immunosuppression similar to the above conditions

People should talk to their healthcare provider about their medical condition, and whether getting an additional dose is appropriate for them. Prescription or notation from a physician or other prescriber is not necessary at this time. Patients with one of the above conditions who wish to receive an additional dose of Pfizer or Moderna vaccine may self-attest to their condition by completing and signing this form:  https://ldh.la.gov/assets/oph/Center-CP/HANs/HANS21-58Attachment-3rdDoseAttestationForm.pdf.

CDC does not recommend additional doses or booster shots for any other population at this time.

Individuals should provide ID and insurance information when they arrive at any LSUHS vaccination site. Those that are without insurance are still eligible to receive the vaccine. For a full schedule and to preregister, go to the LSU Health Shreveport website at www.lsuhs.edu.  

LSUHS COVID TESTING SITES    

LSU Health Shreveport North Campus – 2627 Linwood Avenue, Shreveport           
(Former Chevyland dealership) Monday – Friday from 10 AM – 6 PM  

LSUHS COVID VACCINATION SITES

HAPPENING THIS WEEKEND

SATURDAY, AUGUST 21
Calvary Mission Baptist Church – 5823 Ledbetter Street, Shreveport / 9 AM – 12 PM; Pfizer vaccine

Lane Chapel Baptist Church – 1007 Norma Street, Shreveport / 11 AM – 1 PM; Pfizer vaccine and Johnson & Johnson vaccine

Mt. Olive Missionary Baptist Church – 9860 Greenwood Springridge Rd., Shreveport / 10 AM – 2 PM; Pfizer vaccine

Kings Highway Christian Church – 806 Kings Hwy., Shreveport / 3 PM – 6 PM; Pfizer vaccine

SUNDAY, AUGUST 22
Simple Church – Shreveport Convention Center, 400 Caddo Street, Shreveport / 9 AM – 12:30 PM; Pfizer vaccine and Johnson & Johnson vaccine

St. Mary of the Pines Catholic Church – 1050 W. Bert Kouns Industrial Loop, Shreveport / 10 AM – 2 PM; Pfizer vaccine 

MONDAY - FRIDAY
LSU Health Shreveport North Campus – 2627 Linwood Avenue, Shreveport
(Former Chevyland dealership)         
Dates recur each week, Monday – Friday, from 10 AM – 6 PM 
1^st and 2^nd dose of the Pfizer and Moderna vaccine and Johnson & Johnson

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 25
Bossier Parish Community College (BPCC) – 6220 E. Texas St., Bossier City/ 10:30 AM – 2:30 PM; Pfizer vaccine

Desoto School Board Media Center – 523 Oxford Rd., Mansfield / 4 PM – 6 PM; Pfizer vaccine

Salem Baptist Church – 5187 Hwy 3276, Stonewall/ 4 PM – 6 PM; Pfizer vaccine

Margaritaville Resort & Casino – 777 Margaritaville Way, Bossier City / 10 AM – 12 PM; Pfizer vaccine

THURSDAY, AUGUST 26
Boomtown Resort & Casino – 300 Riverside Dr., Bossier City / 1 PM – 2 PM; Pfizer vaccine

Harrah’s Louisiana Downs – 8000 E. Texas St., Bossier City / 5 PM – 8 PM; Pfizer vaccine

FRIDAY, AUGUST 27
LSUS – 1 University Place, Shreveport / 10 AM – 2 PM; Pfizer vaccine

Korner Lounge – 800 Louisiana Avenue, Shreveport / 6 PM – 8 PM; Pfizer vaccine

Airline High School – 2801 Airline Dr., Bossier City / 4 PM – 7 PM; Pfizer vaccine

SATURDAY, AUGUST 28
Airline High School – 2801 Airline Dr., Bossier City / 8 AM – 2 PM; Pfizer vaccine

Ben Johnson Educational Center – 400 Martin Luther King Jr. Dr., Natchitoches / 10 AM – 2 PM; Pfizer vaccine

AB Palmer Recreational Center – 547 79th St., Shreveport / 10 AM – 2 PM; Pfizer vaccine

David Raines Community Center – 2920 Round Grove Lane, Shreveport / 10 AM – 2 PM; Pfizer vaccine

Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church – 410 North Circle, Bossier City / 10 AM – 12 PM; Pfizer vaccine

SUNDAY, AUGUST 29
Sacred Heart Catholic Church – 4736 Lyba St., Shreveport / 12:15 PM – 3 PM; Pfizer vaccine

###

CONTACT: 
Jazmin Jernigan, Public Relations Coordinator
Office: 318-675-8789, Cell: 318-716-8606, jazmin.jernigan@lsuhs.edu

August 15 – LSU Health Shreveport continues to offer both COVID-19 vaccinations AND testing to the public each Monday through Friday from 10 AM to 6PM at the LSUHS North Campus site (Old Chevyland) located at 2627 Linwood Avenue. Expedited COVID-19 testing is available at the LSUHS North Campus from 10AM to 12PM. Test results are delivered via email within 72 hours.

Any individuals ages 12 and up are eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine. Those wanting to vaccinate children ages 12 to 15 MUST pre-register at www.lsuhs.edu. Minors under age 18 will need to have a parent present or provide a signed parental consent form in order to be vaccinated. Youth ages 12 to 17 may ONLY receive the Pfizer vaccine, but those 18 years and up may receive the Pfizer, Moderna or Johnson & Johnson vaccine. Local pediatric clinic coordinators may contact Dr. John Vanchiere if interested in partnering with LSU Health Shreveport to provide the Pfizer vaccine to their patients. No appointments are needed for first or second doses of the vaccine.

Individuals should provide ID and insurance information when they arrive at any LSUHS vaccination site. Those that are without insurance are still eligible to receive the vaccine. For a full schedule and to preregister, go to the LSU Health Shreveport website at www.lsuhs.edu.

LSUHS COVID TESTING SITES

LSU Health Shreveport North Campus – 2627 Linwood Avenue, Shreveport (Former Chevyland dealership)
Monday – Friday from 10 AM – 6 PM Tests taken before 12 noon receive results next day via email

Youree Drive Middle School – 6008 Youree Drive, Shreveport / Mondays and Wednesdays from 8 AM – 11 AM

Asbury United Methodist Church – 3200 Airline Drive, Bossier City / Mondays and Wednesdays from 1 PM – 4 PM

Galilee Baptist Church – 1500 Pierre Ave, Shreveport / Thursdays from 9 AM – 12 PM

LSUHS COVID VACCINATION SITES

MONDAY - FRIDAY
LSU Health Shreveport North Campus – 2627 Linwood Avenue, Shreveport (Former Chevyland dealership)
Dates recur each week, Monday – Friday, from 10 AM – 6 PM 1st and 2nd dose of the Pfizer and Moderna vaccine and Johnson & Johnson

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 18
Goodwill – 800 W. 70th Street, Shreveport / 9 AM – 12 PM; Pfizer vaccine

THURSDAY, AUGUST 19
Church of the Highlands – 520 Olive Street, Shreveport / 4 PM – 7 PM; Pfizer vaccine

FRIDAY, AUGUST 20
Praise Temple Baptist Church – 4725 Greenwood Road, Shreveport / 4 PM – 7 PM; Pfizer vaccine

Linwood Baptist Church – 1622 Midway Street, Shreveport / 9 AM – 12 PM; Pfizer vaccine

SATURDAY, AUGUST 21
Calvary Mission Baptist Church – 5823 Ledbetter Street, Shreveport / 9 AM – 12 PM; Pfizer vaccine

Lane Chapel Baptist Church – 1007 Norma Street, Shreveport / 11 AM – 1 PM; Pfizer vaccine and Johnson & Johnson vaccine

SUNDAY, AUGUST 22
Simple Church – Shreveport Convention Center, 400 Caddo Street, Shreveport / 10 AM – 2 PM; Pfizer vaccine and Johnson & Johnson vaccine

St. Mary of the Pines Catholic Church – 1050 W. Bert Kouns Industrial Loop, Shreveport / 10 AM – 2 PM; Pfizer vaccine

###

CONTACT:

Jazmin Jernigan, Public Relations Coordinator Office: 318-675-8789, Cell: 318-716-8606, jazmin.jernigan@lsuhs.edu

About LSU Health Shreveport LSU Health Shreveport (LSUHS) is one of two Health Sciences Centers of the Louisiana State University System and one of only 154 in the nation. LSU Health Shreveport is home to the School of Medicine, School of Graduate Studies and School of Allied Health Professions, and a robust research enterprise, which has made a significant impact on the COVID-19 response in Louisiana, region and nation.

 LSU Health Shreveport continues to offer both COVID-19 vaccinations AND testing to the public each Monday through Friday from 10 AM to 6PM at the LSUHS North Campus site (Old Chevyland) located at 2627 Linwood Avenue. Expedited COVID-19 testing is available at the LSUHS North Campus from 10AM to 12PM. Test results are delivered via email within 72 hours.

Any individuals ages 12 and up are eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine. Those wanting to vaccinate children ages 12 to 15 MUST pre-register at www.lsuhs.edu. Minors under age 18 will need to have a parent present or provide a signed parental consent form in order to be vaccinated. Youth ages 12 to 17 may ONLY receive the Pfizer vaccine, but those 18 years and up may receive the Pfizer, Moderna or Johnson & Johnson vaccine. Local pediatric clinic coordinators may contact Dr. John Vanchiere if interested in partnering with LSU Health Shreveport to provide the Pfizer vaccine to their patients. No appointments are needed for first or second doses of the vaccine. 

Individuals should provide ID and insurance information when they arrive at any LSUHS vaccination site. Those that are without insurance are still eligible to receive the vaccine. For a full schedule and to preregister, go to the LSU Health Shreveport website at www.lsuhs.edu.  

LSUHS COVID TESTING SITES    

LSU Health Shreveport North Campus – 2627 Linwood Avenue, Shreveport           
(Former Chevyland dealership)
Monday – Friday from 10 AM – 6 PM 
Tests taken before 12 noon receive results next day via email

Youree Drive Middle School – 6008 Youree Drive, Shreveport
·         Mondays and Wednesdays from 8 AM – 11 AM

Asbury United Methodist Church – 3200 Airline Drive, Bossier City
·         Mondays and Wednesdays from 1 PM – 4 PM

Galilee Baptist Church – 1500 Pierre Ave, Shreveport
·         Thursdays from 9 AM – 12 PM

LSUHS COVID VACCINATION SITES

HAPPENING THIS WEEKEND, AUGUST 7 AND 8

SATURDAY, AUGUST 7
KOKA Back to School at Summer Grove – 8924 Jewella Avenue, Shreveport, 10 AM – 1 PM; Pfizer vaccine

Brainy Block Party – 8856 Youree Drive, Shreveport, 10 AM – 2 PM; Pfizer vaccine and Johnson & Johnson vaccine

Airline High School– 2801 Airline Drive, Bossier City, 10 AM – 2 PM; Pfizer vaccine

David Raines Community Center – 2920 Round Grove Lane, Shreveport, 10 AM – 2 PM; Pfizer vaccine

AB Palmer Recreation Center– 547 E. 79^th Street, Shreveport, 10 AM – 2 PM; Pfizer vaccine

Fellowship Baptist Church – 410 North Circle, Bossier City, 10 AM – 3 PM; Pfizer vaccine

Ratchet City Festival – 101 Travis Street, Shreveport, 4 PM – 7 PM; Pfizer vaccine and Johnson & Johnson

SUNDAY, AUGUST 8
Sacred Heart Catholic Church – 4736 Lyba Street, Shreveport, 12:15 PM – 3 PM; Pfizer vaccine

AB Palmer Recreation Center– 547 E. 79^th Street, Shreveport, 2 PM – 6 PM; Pfizer vaccine

MONDAY - FRIDAY
LSU Health Shreveport North Campus – 2627 Linwood Avenue, Shreveport
(Former Chevyland dealership)
·         Monday – Friday, from 10 AM – 6 PM (Dates at this location are constant throughout the month) 1^st and 2^nd dose of the Pfizer and Moderna vaccine and Johnson & Johnson

MONDAY, AUGUST 9
North Webster High School – 101 South Arkansas Street, Spring Hill, 9 AM – 2 PM; Pfizer vaccine

Harper Elementary School – 618 Germantown Road, Minden, 9 AM – 2 PM; Pfizer vaccine

Booker T. Washington High School – 2104 Miliam Street, Shreveport, 9 AM – 12 PM; Pfizer vaccine

Green Oaks High School – 2550 Thomas E. Howard Drive, Shreveport, 1:30 PM – 4 PM; Pfizer vaccine

TUESDAY, AUGUST 10
KOKA Job Fair – Hilton Garden Inn/Homewood Suites, 2015 Old Minden Rd, Bossier City, 10 AM – 1 PM; Pfizer vaccine

Captain Shreve High School – 6115 E. Kings Hwy, Shreveport, 2 PM – 5 PM; Pfizer vaccine

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 11
Northwood High School – 5939 Old Mooringsport Road, Shreveport, 9 AM – 12 PM; Pfizer vaccine

Woodlawn High School – 7340 Wyngate Boulevard, Shreveport, 1:30 PM – 4 PM; Pfizer vaccine

THURSDAY, AUGUST 12
Southwood High School – 900 Walker Road, Shreveport, 7:30 AM – 9:30 AM; Pfizer vaccine

Huntington High School – 6801 Rasberry Lane, Shreveport, 1:30 PM – 4 PM; Pfizer vaccine

Peaceful Rest Baptist Church – 8200 St. Vincent Avenue, Shreveport, 3 PM – 7 PM; Pfizer vaccine

FRIDAY, AUGUST 13
Caddo Parish Magnet High School – 1601 Viking Drive, Shreveport, 7:30 AM – 9:30 AM; Pfizer vaccine

Horseshoe Casino – 711 Horseshoe Boulevard, Bossier City, 4 PM – 8 PM; Pfizer vaccine

SATURDAY, AUGUST 14
Mt. Olive Baptist Church of Greenwood – 9860 Greenwood Springridge Road, Shreveport, 10 AM – 12 PM; Pfizer vaccine

Williams Memorial CME Temple – 7288 Greenwood Road, Shreveport, 10 AM – 1 PM; Pfizer vaccine and Johnson & Johnson vaccine

Better Together Back to School – Louisiana State Fairgrounds, 3701 Hudson, Shreveport, 10 AM – 2 PM; Pfizer vaccine

Geek’d Con – Shreveport Convention Center, 400 Caddo Street, Shreveport, 12 PM – 4 PM; Pfizer vaccine and Johnson & Johnson vaccine

SUNDAY, AUGUST 15
Geek’d Con – Shreveport Convention Center, 400 Caddo Street, Shreveport, 1 PM – 5 PM; Pfizer vaccine and Johnson & Johnson vaccine

Pleasant Hill Baptist Church – 4670 Lakeshore Drive, Shreveport, 11:30 AM – 3:30 PM; Pfizer vaccine

August 1 – LSU Health Shreveport continues to offer both COVID-19 vaccinations AND testing to the public each Monday through Friday from 10 AM to 6PM at the LSUHS North Campus site (Old Chevyland) located at 2627 Linwood Avenue. Expedited COVID-19 testing is available at the LSUHS North Campus from 10AM to 12PM. Test results are delivered via email within 72 hours.

Any individuals age 12 and up are eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine. Those wanting to vaccinate children ages 12 to 15 MUST pre-register at www.lsuhs.edu. Minors under age 18 will need to have a parent present or provide a signed parental consent form in order to be vaccinated. Youth ages 12 to 17 may ONLY receive the Pfizer vaccine, but those 18 years and up may receive the Pfizer, Moderna or Johnson & Johnson vaccine. Local pediatric clinic coordinators may contact Dr. John Vanchiere if interested in partnering with LSU Health Shreveport to provide the Pfizer vaccine to their patients. No appointments are needed for first or second doses of the vaccine.

Individuals should provide ID and insurance information when they arrive at any LSUHS vaccination site. Those that are without insurance are still eligible to receive the vaccine. For a full schedule and to preregister, go to the LSU Health Shreveport website at www.lsuhs.edu.

LSUHS COVID TESTING SITES

LSU Health Shreveport North Campus – 2627 Linwood Avenue, Shreveport (Former Chevyland dealership), Monday – Friday from 10 AM – 6 PM Tests taken before 12 noon receive results next day via email

Youree Drive Middle School – 6008 Youree Drive, Shreveport, Mondays and Wednesdays from 8 AM – 11 AM

Asbury United Methodist Church – 3200 Airline Drive, Bossier City, Mondays and Wednesdays from 1 PM – 4 PM

Galilee Baptist Church – 1500 Pierre Ave, Shreveport, Thursdays from 9 AM – 12 PM

LSUHS COVID VACCINATION SITES

MONDAY – FRIDAY LSU Health Shreveport North Campus – 2627 Linwood Avenue, Shreveport (Former Chevyland dealership)
Each week, Monday – Friday, from 10 AM – 6 PM 1st and 2nd dose of the Pfizer and Moderna vaccine and Johnson & Johnson

MONDAY, AUGUST 2
Natchitoches Central High School – 6513 LA-1, Natchitoches, 9 AM – 12 PM and 1 PM – 3 PM; Pfizer vaccine

TUESDAY, AUGUST 3
Natchitoches Central High School – 6513 LA-1, Natchitoches, 9 AM – 12 PM; Pfizer vaccine

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST
4 Margaritaville Casino – 777 Margaritaville Way, Bossier City, 10 AM – 1 PM; Pfizer, Moderna, and Johnson & Johnson vaccine

LA Workforce Commission Job Fair – Shreveport Convention Center 400 Caddo Street, Shreveport, 10 AM – 2 PM; Pfizer vaccine

Desoto Media Center– 523 Oxford Road, Mansfield, 4 PM – 7 PM; Pfizer vaccine

Salem Baptist Church – 5187 LA-3276, Stonewall, 4 PM – 7 PM; Pfizer vaccine

THURSDAY, AUGUST
5 Natchitoches Central High School – 6513 LA-1, Natchitoches, 9 AM – 3 PM; Pfizer vaccine

Southfield School – 1100 Southfield Rd, Shreveport, 9:30 AM – 12 PM; Pfizer vaccine

Harrah’s Louisiana Downs – 8000 E Texas Street, Bossier City, 4 PM – 8 PM; Pfizer vaccine

Boomtown Casino – 300 Riverside Drive, Bossier City, 1 PM – 3 PM; Pfizer vaccine

Byrd High School – 3201 Line Avenue, Shreveport, 9 AM – 12 PM and 1 PM – 3 PM; Pfizer vaccine

FRIDAY, AUGUST 6
St. Joseph Catholic Church– 204 Patton Avenue, Shreveport, 9 AM – 11 AM and 1 PM – 3 PM; Pfizer vaccine

Southfield School – 1100 Southfield Rd, Shreveport,  9:30 AM – 12 PM; Pfizer vaccine

The Bradford – 3050 Baird Rd, Shreveport,  3 PM – 7 PM; Pfizer vaccine

Arline High School – 2801 Airline Drive, Bossier City,  4 PM – 7 PM; Pfizer vaccine

SATURDAY, AUGUST 7
Fellowship Baptist Church – 410 North Circle, Bossier City, 10 AM – 3 PM; Pfizer vaccine

Brainy Block Party – 8856 Youree Drive, Shreveport, 10 AM – 2 PM; Pfizer vaccine and Johnson & Johnson vaccine

Airline High School – 2801 Airline Drive, Bossier City, 10 AM – 2 PM; Pfizer vaccine

KOKA Back to School at Summer Grove – 8924 Jewella Avenue, Shreveport, 10 AM – 1 PM; Pfizer vaccine

SUNDAY, AUGUST 8
AB Palmer Recreation Center– 547 E. 79th Street, Shreveport, 2 PM – 6 PM; Pfizer vaccine

Sacred Heart Catholic Church – 4736 Lyba St, Shreveport,  12:15 PM – 3 PM and 1 PM – 3 PM; Pfizer vaccine

###

CONTACT:

Jazmin Jernigan, Public Relations Coordinator Office: 318-675-8789, Cell: 318-716-8606, jazmin.jernigan@lsuhs.edu

LSU Health Shreveport was awarded one of three contracts in Louisiana to deliver COVID-19 testing in kindergarten through twelfth grade (K-12). The agreement is in partnership with Louisiana Department of Education (LDOE) and the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) with funding provided by the Center for Disease Control (CDC).

LDH is offering all Louisiana schools (public and private) free COVID-19 testing for the 2021-2022 school year. Experienced testing personnel, supported by the Center for Emerging Viral Threats (CEVT) lab, will complete testing. The contract awarded to LSU Health Shreveport allows any school in thirty-two parishes comprising Public Health Regions 5-8 to opt into the LSUHS COVID-19 K-12 Testing Program. Interested schools should complete LDH’s registration survey at https://ldh.la.gov/k-12covidtesting.

Beginning Wednesday, July 28, Director of COVID-19 Testing and Vaccine Outreach, John Vanchiere MD, PhD, and K-12 Program Engagement Coordinator, Jennifer Deason EdD, will begin hosting weekly informational Zoom sessions each Wednesday at 2 pm. To attend, go to www.lsuhs.edu/covid19/k12-school-testing.

Questions related to the LSUHS COVID-19 K-12 Testing Program should be directed to Jennifer Deason, EdD at 318-675-7588 or Jennifer.deason@lsuhs.edu.

July 26 – LSU Health Shreveport continues to offer both COVID-19 vaccinations AND testing to the public each Monday through Friday from 10 AM to 6PM at the LSUHS North Campus site (Old Chevyland) located at 2627 Linwood Avenue. Expedited COVID-19 testing is available at the LSUHS North Campus from 10AM to 12PM. Test results are delivered via email within 72 hours.

Any individuals age 12 and up are eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine. Those wanting to vaccinate children ages 12 to 15 MUST pre-register at www.lsuhs.edu. Minors under age 18 will need to have a parent present or provide a signed parental consent form in order to be vaccinated. Youth ages 12 to 17 may ONLY receive the Pfizer vaccine, but those 18 years and up may receive the Pfizer, Moderna or Johnson & Johnson vaccine. Local pediatric clinic coordinators may contact Dr. John Vanchiere if interested in partnering with LSU Health Shreveport to provide the Pfizer vaccine to their patients. No appointments are needed for first or second doses of the vaccine. 

Individuals should provide ID and insurance information when they arrive at any LSUHS vaccination site. Those that are without insurance are still eligible to receive the vaccine. For a full schedule and to preregister, go to the LSU Health Shreveport website at www.lsuhs.edu.  

LSUHS COVID TESTING SITES    

LSU Health Shreveport North Campus – 2627 Linwood Avenue, Shreveport           
(Former Chevyland dealership)
Monday – Friday from 10 AM – 6 PM 
Tests taken before 12 noon receive results next day via email

Youree Drive Middle School – 6008 Youree Drive, Shreveport
Mondays and Wednesdays from 8 AM – 11 AM

Asbury United Methodist Church – 3200 Airline Drive, Bossier City
Mondays and Wednesdays from 1 PM – 4 PM

Galilee Baptist Church – 1500 Pierre Ave, Shreveport
Thursdays from 9 AM – 12 PM

LSUHS COVID VACCINATION SITES

MONDAY – FRIDAY
LSU Health Shreveport North Campus – 2627 Linwood Avenue, Shreveport
(Former Chevyland dealership)         
Each week, Monday – Friday, from 10 AM – 6 PM 
1^st and 2^nd dose of the Pfizer and Moderna vaccine and Johnson & Johnson

TUESDAY, JULY 27
Minden High School – 203 Richardson Street, Minden
9 AM – 12 PM; Pfizer vaccine

WEDNESDAY, July 28
North Webster High School – 101 South Arkansas Street, Spring Hill
9 AM – 12 PM; Pfizer vaccine

SATURDAY, JULY 31
TEEN FEST at Galilee Baptist Church – 1500 Pierre Ave., Shreveport
10 AM – 1 PM; Pfizer, Moderna, and Johnson & Johnson vaccine

LSU Health Shreveport continues to offer both COVID-19 vaccinations AND testing to the public each Monday through Friday from 10 AM to 6PM at the LSUHS North Campus site (Old Chevyland) located at 2627 Linwood Avenue. Expedited COVID-19 testing is available at the LSUHS North Campus from 10AM to 12PM. Test results are delivered via email within 72 hours.

Individuals age 12 and up are eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine. Those wanting to vaccinate children ages 12 to 15 MUST pre-register at www.lsuhs.edu. Minors under age 18 will need to have a parent present or provide a signed parental consent form in order to be vaccinated. Youth ages 12 to 17 may ONLY receive the Pfizer vaccine, but those 18 years and up may receive the Pfizer, Moderna or Johnson & Johnson vaccine. Local pediatric clinic coordinators may contact Dr. John Vanchiere if interested in partnering with LSU Health Shreveport to provide the Pfizer vaccine to their patients. No appointments are needed for first or second doses of the vaccine. 

Individuals should provide ID and insurance information when they arrive at any LSUHS vaccination site. Those that are without insurance are still eligible to receive the vaccine. For a full schedule and to preregister, go to the LSU Health Shreveport website at www.lsuhs.edu.  

LSUHS COVID TESTING SITES    

LSU Health Shreveport North Campus – 2627 Linwood Avenue, Shreveport           
(Former Chevyland dealership)
Monday – Friday from 10 AM – 6 PM 
Tests taken before 12 noon receive results next day via email 

Youree Drive Middle School – 6008 Youree Drive, Shreveport
Mondays and Wednesdays from 8 AM – 11 AM

Asbury United Methodist Church – 3200 Airline Drive, Bossier City
Mondays and Wednesdays from 1 PM – 4 PM

Galilee Baptist Church – 1500 Pierre Ave, Shreveport
Thursdays from 9 AM – 12 PM

LSUHS COVID VACCINATION SITES

MONDAY – FRIDAY
LSU Health Shreveport North Campus – 2627 Linwood Avenue, Shreveport
(Former Chevyland dealership)
Each week, Monday – Friday, from 10 AM – 6 PM 
1^st and 2^nd dose of the Pfizer and Moderna vaccine and Johnson & Johnson

TUESDAY, JULY 20
Renaissance at Allendale – 1101 Allen Avenue, Shreveport
3 PM – 6 PM; Pfizer vaccine

WEDNESDAY, JULY 21
Cypress Landing Apartments – 4715 Hilry Huckaby III Avenue, Shreveport
3 PM – 6 PM; Pfizer vaccine

FRIDAY, JULY 23
Horseshoe Casino – 711 Horseshoe Boulevard, Bossier City
4 PM – 8 PM; Pfizer vaccine

Salvation Army – 200 E. Stoner Avenue, Shreveport  
9 AM – 11 AM; Pfizer vaccine

SUNDAY, JULY 25
St. George Greek Orthodox Church – 1719 Creswell Avenue, Shreveport
8 AM –11 AM; Pfizer vaccine

TUESDAY, JULY 27
Minden High School – 203 Richardson Street, Minden
9 AM – 12 PM; Pfizer vaccine

###

CONTACT: 

Jazmin Jernigan, Public Relations Coordinator
Office: 318-675-8789, Cell: 318-716-8606, jazmin.jernigan@lsuhs.edu

LSU Health Shreveport continues to offer both COVID-19 vaccinations AND testing to the public each Monday through Friday from 10 AM to 6PM at the LSUHS North Campus site (Old Chevyland) located at 2627 Linwood Avenue. Expedited COVID-19 testing is available at the LSUHS North Campus from 10AM to 12PM. Test results are delivered via email within 72 hours.

Any individuals age 12 and up are eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine. Those wanting to vaccinate children ages 12 to 15 MUST pre-register at www.lsuhs.edu. Minors under age 18 will need to have a parent present or provide a signed parental consent form in order to be vaccinated. Youth ages 12 to 17 may ONLY receive the Pfizer vaccine, but those 18 years and up may receive the Pfizer, Moderna or Johnson & Johnson vaccine. Local pediatric clinic coordinators may contact Dr. John Vanchiere if interested in partnering with LSU Health Shreveport to provide the Pfizer vaccine to their patients. No appointments are needed for first or second doses of the vaccine. 

Individuals should provide ID and insurance information when they arrive at any LSUHS vaccination site. Those that are without insurance are still eligible to receive the vaccine. For a full schedule and to preregister, go to the LSU Health Shreveport website at www.lsuhs.edu.  

LSUHS COVID TESTING SITES    

LSU Health Shreveport North Campus – 2627 Linwood Avenue, Shreveport           
(Former Chevyland dealership)
Monday – Friday from 10 AM – 6 PM 
Tests taken before 12 noon receive results next day via email

Youree Drive Middle School – 6008 Youree Drive, Shreveport
Mondays and Wednesdays from 8 AM – 11 AM

Asbury United Methodist Church – 3200 Airline Drive, Bossier City
Mondays from 1 PM – 4 PM

Galilee Baptist Church – 1500 Pierre Ave, Shreveport
Thursdays from 9 AM – 12 PM

LSUHS COVID VACCINATION SITES

MONDAY – FRIDAY
LSU Health Shreveport North Campus – 2627 Linwood Avenue, Shreveport
(Former Chevyland dealership)         

Each week, Monday – Friday, from 10 AM – 6 PM 
1^st and 2^nd dose of the Pfizer and Moderna vaccine and Johnson & Johnson

THURSDAY, July 15
Harrah’s Louisiana Downs – 8000 E Texas St, Bossier City
11 AM – 2 PM; Pfizer vaccine

Greenwood Terrace Apartments – 4619 Luciana Cir, Shreveport
3 PM – 6 PM; Pfizer vaccine

FRIDAY, July 16
Bradford Nursing Home – 101 South Arkansas Street, Spring Hill
3 PM – 7 PM; Pfizer vaccine

Hollywood Heights Apartments – 1915 Patzman Street, Shreveport
3 PM – 6 PM; Pfizer vaccine

SATURDAY, July 17
Fellowship Baptist Church – 410 North Circle, Bossier City
3 PM – 6 PM; Pfizer vaccine

SUNDAY, July 18
Sacred Heart Catholic Church – 4736 Lyba St, Shreveport
12 PM – 2 PM; Pfizer vaccine

###

CONTACT: 
Jazmin Jernigan, Public Relations Coordinator
Office: 318-675-8789, Cell: 318-716-8606, jazmin.jernigan@lsuhs.edu

July 7 – LSU Health Shreveport CEVT has added two site locations to the vaccination schedule. Both locations have been highlighted in yellow below.

LSUHS COVID VACCINATION SITES

MONDAY – FRIDAY LSU Health Shreveport North Campus – 2627 Linwood Avenue, Shreveport (Former Chevyland dealership) Each week, Monday – Friday, from 10 AM – 6 PM 1st and 2nd dose of the Pfizer and Moderna vaccine, and Johnson & Johnson

SATURDAY, July 10

Lane Chapel CME – 1007 Norma Street, Shreveport, 10 AM – 1 PM; Pfizer vaccine

Williams Memorial CME Temple – 7288 Greenwood Road, Shreveport, 10 AM – 1 PM; Pfizer vaccine

New Hill CME - 8725 Spring Ridge, Keithville, 10 AM – 1 PM; Pfizer vaccine

Sickle Cell Softball Tournament – Cargill Softball Park, 2800 Cargill, Shreveport, 12:30 PM – 4:30 PM; Johnson & Johnson vaccine

SUNDAY, July 11

St. Mary of the Pines Catholic Church – 1050 W. Bert Kouns Industrial Loop, Shreveport, 10 AM – 2 PM; Pfizer vaccine

Sickle Cell Softball Tournament – Cargill Softball Park, 2800 Cargill, Shreveport, 12:30 PM – 4:30 PM; Johnson & Johnson vaccine

###

CONTACT: Jazmin Jernigan, Public Relations Coordinator Office: 318-675-8789, Cell: 318-716-8606, jazmin.jernigan@lsuhs.edu

July 2 – LSU Health Shreveport continues to offer both COVID-19 vaccinations AND testing to the public each Monday through Friday from 10 AM to 6PM at the LSUHS North Campus site (Old Chevyland) located at 2627 Linwood Avenue. This Monday, July 5 all LSUHS vaccine and testing sites will be closed in observance of the Independence Day Holiday. Expedited COVID-19 testing for admission to summer camp or for travel, is available LSUHS North Campus from 10AM to 12PM. Test results are delivered via email within 72 hours.

Any individuals age 12 and up are eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine. Those wanting to vaccinate children ages 12 to 15 MUST pre-register at www.lsuhs.edu. Minors under age 18 will need to have a parent present or provide a signed parental consent form in order to be vaccinated. Youth ages 12 to 17 may ONLY receive the Pfizer vaccine, but those 18 years and up may receive the Pfizer, Moderna or Johnson & Johnson vaccine. Local pediatric clinic coordinators may contact Dr. John Vanchiere if interested in partnering with LSU Health Shreveport to provide the Pfizer vaccine to their patients. No appointments are needed for first or second doses of the vaccine. 

Individuals should provide ID and insurance information when they arrive at any LSUHS vaccination site. Those that are without insurance are still eligible to receive the vaccine. While pre-registration is encouraged, it is not required to receive the vaccine. For a full schedule and to preregister, go to the LSU Health Shreveport website at www.lsuhs.edu.  

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LSUHS COVID TESTING SITES    

LSU Health Shreveport North Campus – 2627 Linwood Avenue, Shreveport           
(Former Chevyland dealership)
Monday – Friday from 10 AM – 6 PM (closed this Monday for Holiday)
Tests taken before 12 noon receive results next day via email

Youree Drive Middle School – 6008 Youree Drive, Shreveport
Mondays and Wednesdays from 8 AM – 11 AM (closed this Monday for Holiday)

Asbury United Methodist Church – 3200 Airline Drive, Bossier City
Mondays from 1 PM – 4 PM (closed this Monday for Holiday)

Galilee Baptist Church – 1500 Pierre Ave, Shreveport
Thursdays from 9 AM – 12 PM

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LSUHS COVID VACCINATION SITES

MONDAY – FRIDAY
LSU Health Shreveport North Campus – 2627 Linwood Avenue, Shreveport
(Former Chevyland dealership)
Each week, Monday – Friday, from 10 AM – 6 PM (closed this Monday for Holiday)
1^st and 2^nd dose of the Pfizer and Moderna vaccine and Johnson & Johnson

TUESDAY, July 6
Minden High School – 203 Richardson Street, Minden, 9 AM – 12 PM; Pfizer vaccine

WEDNESDAY, July 7
North Webster High School – 101 South Arkansas Street, Spring Hill, 9 AM – 12 PM; Pfizer vaccine

Canaan Village Apartments – 1915 Patzman Street, Shreveport, 3 PM – 6 PM; Pfizer vaccine

SATURDAY, July 10
Lane Chapel CME – 1007 Norma Street, Shreveport, 10 AM – 1 PM; Pfizer vaccine

Williams Memorial CME Temple – 7288 Greenwood Road, Shreveport, 10 AM – 1 PM; Pfizer vaccine

SUNDAY, July 11
St. Mary of the Pines Catholic Church – 1050 W. Bert Kouns Industrial Loop, Shreveport, 10 AM – 2 PM; Pfizer vaccine

###

CONTACT: 

Jazmin Jernigan, Public Relations Coordinator
Office: 318-675-8789, Cell: 318-716-8606, jazmin.jernigan@lsuhs.edu

About LSU Health Shreveport

LSU Health Shreveport (LSUHS) is one of two Health Sciences Centers of the Louisiana State University System and one of only 154 in the nation.  LSU Health Shreveport is home to the School of Medicine, School of Graduate Studies and School of Allied Health Professions, and a robust research enterprise, which has made a significant impact on the COVID-19 response in Louisiana, region and nation.

LSU Health Shreveport continues to offer both COVID-19 vaccinations AND testing to the public Monday through Friday from 10 AM to 6PM at the LSUHS North Campus site (Old Chevyland) located at 2627 Linwood Avenue. Those needing an expedited COVID-19 test for admission to summer camp or for travel, should arrive at the LSUHS North Campus between 10AM and 12PM to receive test results via email within 72 hours.

Any individuals age 12 and up are eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine. Those wanting to vaccinate children ages 12 to 15 MUST pre-register at www.lsuhs.edu. Minors under age 18 will need to have a parent present or provide a signed parental consent form in order to be vaccinated. Youth ages 12 to 17 may ONLY receive the Pfizer vaccine, but those 18 years and up may receive the Pfizer, Moderna or Johnson & Johnson vaccine. Local pediatric clinic coordinators may contact Dr. John Vanchiere if interested in partnering with LSU Health Shreveport to provide the Pfizer vaccine to their patients. No appointments are needed for first or second doses of the vaccine. 

Individuals should provide ID and insurance information when they arrive at any LSUHS vaccination site. Those that are without insurance are still eligible to receive the vaccine. While pre-registration is encouraged, it is not required to receive the vaccine. For a full schedule and to preregister, go to the LSU Health Shreveport website at www.lsuhs.edu.  

LSUHS COVID TESTING SITES    

LSU Health Shreveport North Campus – 2627 Linwood Avenue, Shreveport           
(Former Chevyland dealership)
Monday – Friday from 10 AM – 6 PM 
Tests taken before 12 noon receive results next day via email

 Asbury United Methodist Church – 3200 Airline Drive, Bossier City
Mondays from 1 PM – 4 PM

Galilee Baptist Church – 1500 Pierre Ave, Shreveport
Thursdays from 9 AM – 12 PM

LSUHS COVID VACCINATION SITES

MONDAY - FRIDAY
LSU Health Shreveport North Campus – 2627 Linwood Avenue, Shreveport  
(Former Chevyland dealership)
Each week, Monday – Friday, from 10 AM – 6 PM 
1^st and 2^nd dose of the Pfizer and Moderna vaccine and Johnson & Johnson

SATURDAY, June 19
Let the Good Times Roll Festival – Festival Plaza, 101 Crocket Street, Shreveport
Saturday, June 19, from 8 AM – 12 PM; Johnson & Johnson vaccine

Valencia Park Juneteenth Celebration – 1800 Viking Drive, Shreveport
Saturday, June 19, from 10 AM – 1 PM; Johnson & Johnson vaccine

Babbs Park – 708 Waterman Street, Minden
Saturday, June 19, from 4 PM – 6 PM; Johnson & Johnson vaccine

MONDAY, June 21
Christ the King – 6136 LA-3, Benton
Monday, June 21, from 5 PM – 7 PM; Pfizer vaccine

THURSDAY, June 24
Harrah’s Louisiana Downs – 8000 E Texas St, Bossier City
Thursday, June 24, from 11 AM – 2 PM; Pfizer vaccine

Greenwood Terrace Apartments – 4619 Luciana Cir, Shreveport
Thursday, June 24, from 3 PM – 6 PM; Pfizer vaccine

FRIDAY, June 25
Booker T Washington Rehabilitation Center – 7605 Line Ave, Shreveport
Friday, June 25, from 3 PM – 7 PM; Pfizer vaccine

Hollywood Heights Apartments – 5000 Armstrong Pl, Shreveport
Friday, June 25, from 3 PM – 6 PM; Pfizer vaccine

SATURDAY, June 26
LP Vaughn Elementary & Middle School – 1500 Gold St, Natchitoches
Saturday, June 26, from 10 AM – 12 PM; Pfizer vaccine

M.R. Weaver Elementary – 520 Par Rd 508, Natchitoches
Saturday, June 26, from 10 AM – 12 PM; Pfizer vaccine

SUNDAY, June 27
St. George Greek Orthodox Church – 1719 Creswell Ave, Shreveport,
Sunday, June 27, from 8:30 AM – 11:30 PM; Pfizer vaccine

Cathedral of St. John Berchmans – 939 Jordan Street, Shreveport
Sunday, June 27, from 11 AM – 2 PM; Pfizer vaccine

Sacred Heart Catholic Church – 4736 Lyba St, Shreveport
Sunday, June 27, from 12 PM – 3 PM; Pfizer vaccine

June 11 – LSU Health Shreveport continues to offer both COVID-19 vaccinations AND testing to the public Monday through Friday from 10 AM to 6PM at the LSUHS North Campus site (Old Chevyland) located at 2627 Linwood Avenue. Those needing an expedited COVID-19 test for admission to summer camp or for travel, should arrive at the LSUHS North Campus between 10AM and 12PM to receive test results via email within 72 hours.

Any individuals age 12 and up are eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine. Those wanting to vaccinate children ages 12 to 15 MUST pre-register at www.lsuhs.edu. Minors under age 18 will need to have a parent present or provide a signed parental consent form in order to be vaccinated. Youth ages 12 to 17 may ONLY receive the Pfizer vaccine, but those 18 years and up may receive the Pfizer, Moderna or Johnson & Johnson vaccine. Local pediatric clinic coordinators may contact Dr. John Vanchiere if interested in partnering with LSU Health Shreveport to provide the Pfizer vaccine to their patients. No appointments are needed for first or second doses of the vaccine. 

Individuals should provide ID and insurance information when they arrive at any LSUHS vaccination site. Those that are without insurance are still eligible to receive the vaccine. While pre-registration is encouraged, it is not required to receive the vaccine. For a full schedule and to preregister, go to the LSU Health Shreveport website at www.lsuhs.edu.  

LSUHS COVID TESTING SITES    

LSU Health Shreveport North Campus – 2627 Linwood Avenue, Shreveport           
(Former Chevyland dealership)
Monday – Friday from 10 AM – 6 PM 
Tests taken before 12 noon receive results next day via email

Asbury United Methodist Church – 3200 Airline Drive, Bossier City
Mondays from 1 PM – 4 PM

Galilee Baptist Church – 1500 Pierre Ave, Shreveport
Thursdays from 9 AM – 12 PM

LSUHS COVID VACCINATION SITES

MONDAY - FRIDAY
LSU Health Shreveport North Campus – 2627 Linwood Avenue, Shreveport  
(Former Chevyland dealership)
Monday – Friday, June 7 – June 11, from 10 AM – 6 PM 
1^ST and 2^nd dose of the Pfizer and Moderna vaccine and Johnson & Johnson

SATURDAY, June 12
Williams Memorial CME Temple – 7288 Greenwood Road, Shreveport
Saturday, June 12, from 9 AM – 1 PM; Pfizer vaccine

Lane Chapel CME – 1007 Norma Street, Shreveport
Saturday, June 12, from 9 AM – 1 PM; Pfizer vaccine

Hattie Perry Park – 4300 Ledbetter Street, Shreveport
Saturday, June 12, from 12 PM – 4 PM; Pfizer vaccine

Barksdale Hooter Park – 100 Hooter Park Drive, Bossier City
Saturday, June 12, from 2 PM – 5 PM; Pfizer vaccine

SUNDAY, June 13
St. Mary of the Pines Catholic Church – 1050 W. Bert Kouns Industrial Loop, Shreveport
Sunday, June 13, from 10 AM – 2 PM; Pfizer vaccine

MONDAY, June 14
Benton Middle School – 6136 LA-3, Benton
Monday, June 14, from 3 PM – 6 PM; Pfizer vaccine

Green Acres Middle School – 2220 Airline Dr, Bossier City
Monday, June 14, from 3 PM – 6 PM; Pfizer vaccine

TUESDAY, June 15
Logansport High School – 17228 LA-5, Logansport
Tuesday, June 15, from 9 AM – 1 PM; Johnson & Johnson vaccine

Mansfield High School – 401 Kings Hwy, Mansfield
Tuesday, June 15, from 1 PM – 4 PM; Pfizer vaccine

Cope Middle School – 4814 Shed Rd, Bossier City
Tuesday, June 15, from 3 PM – 6 PM; Pfizer vaccine

Haughton Middle School – 250 Champion Shores, Haughton
Tuesday, June 15, from 3 PM – 6 PM; Pfizer vaccine

WEDNESDAY, June 16
Rusheon Middle School – 2401 Old Minden Rd, Bossier City
Wednesday, June 16, from 3 PM – 6 PM; Pfizer vaccine

Elm Grove Middle School – 4301 Panther Dr, Bossier City
Wednesday, June 16, from 3 PM – 6 PM; Pfizer vaccine

THURSDAY, June 17
North Desoto – 2401 Old Minden Rd, Bossier City
Thursday, June 17, from 9 AM – 12 PM; Pfizer vaccine

FRIDAY, June 18
Harrah’s Louisiana Downs – 8000 E Texas St, Bossier City 
Friday, June 18, from 3 PM – 7 PM; Pfizer vaccine

SATURDAY, June 19
Let the Good Times Roll Festival – Festival Plaza, 101 Crocket Street, Shreveport
Saturday, June 19, from 8 AM – 12 PM; Johnson & Johnson vaccine

NEW YORK | June 9, 2021 – The Rockefeller Foundation announces over $20 million in funding and several non-financial collaborations to help strengthen global capabilities to detect and respond to pandemic threats by strengthening organizations’ abilities to sequence and share genomic information and other data rapidly. Collaborating with over 20 organizations from the public, private, and non-profit sectors, this enhanced network will begin to shape The Rockefeller Foundation’s pandemic prevention institute.

“Fast, accurate genomic sequencing information is the key to ending the Covid-19 pandemic and the suffering it has caused. Yet today only 14 countries, all of which have developed economies, are sequencing five percent or more of their cases and sharing them through global databases,” said Rajiv J. Shah, President of the Rockefeller Foundation. “For that reason, The Rockefeller Foundation is strengthening global sequencing capacity – to end this pandemic for all as soon as possible.”

These initial grants and agreements will expand country and regional capacity for sequencing the genomes of pathogens in sub-Saharan Africa, India and the United States, as well as strengthen a global network of genomic sequencing information that is accessible across the world. They represent the first step in the development of The Rockefeller Foundation’s pandemic prevention institute. The institute will collaborate other pandemic prevention efforts, including the WHO Hub for Pandemic and Epidemic Intelligence and the UK’s Global Pandemic Radar and other pandemic prevention efforts, to identify disease outbreaks early and stop them in the first 100 days.

As Covid-19 variants continue to drive surges of outbreaks, reliable genomic surveillance will help accelerate timely analysis and inform response measures to keep countries one step ahead of the virus and counter emerging threats in the future.

“As the virus evolves, we have to ensure that vaccines, our best tools for stopping it and its deadly toll on individuals, families and communities, remain effective,” said Dr. Rick Bright, Senior Vice President of Pandemic Preparedness at The Rockefeller Foundation. “Rapidly sharing genomic sequencing information from all corners of the globe enables us to see and understand how the virus is changing and adapt our tools accordingly. Without this information we risk the pandemic continuing to wreak havoc on our lives.”

Transforming global capacity to better detect and respond to pandemics

Scaling up global genomic sequencing pipelines
The Rockefeller Foundation is working to expand global genomic sequencing capacity in collaboration with a range of organizations across several key geographies, such as sub-Saharan Africa, the US, and Asia, including:

• GISAID Initiative to accelerate the advancement of its pathogen data sharing platform and to further incentivize the global community of data generators to rapidly share outbreak data to enable real-time public health responses and the development of lifesaving countermeasures such as vaccines and diagnostic tests to detect novel pathogens;
• CSIR-Center for Cellular and Molecular Biology on behalf of a consortium of pathogen genomics sequencing centers to develop targeted sampling strategies, optimize bioinformatics tools, and enable real-time understanding of viral evolution while building a long-term pathogen genomics and surveillance platform across India;
• Stellenbosch University to refine sampling, expand bioinformatics pipelines, catalyze surveillance-informed public health decision-making, and expand local knowledge through fellowships and workforce development programs throughout Africa;
• U.S. Regional Accelerators for Genomic Surveillance to provide strategic coordination and operational support towards improved and diversified regional surveillance efforts across a network of institutions, including the Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Louisiana State University Health Shreveport, University of Florida, and University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Additionally, The Rockefeller Foundation and the World Health Organization are co-leading a working group on genomic surveillance within the ACT-A Diagnostic Pillar. This group will complement the groups set around the WHO Global Risk Monitoring Framework for variants and consultations, and will focus on harmonizing, coordinating and accelerating priority activities across country, regional and global partners by building on existing initiatives and avoiding duplication.

Supporting data and technology globally
Covid-19 demonstrated that the world was ill-prepared to combat a novel pathogen. Before the next pandemic strikes, modernizing the global infrastructure for pandemic preparedness and prevention is critical. The Foundation working in close partnership with other organizations that share this vision to leverage comparative strengths to transform global capacity and is formally collaborating with:

• Concentric by Ginkgo to develop end-to-end biosecurity technologies in order to monitor, detect, and mitigate biological threats by leveraging Ginkgo Bioworks' synthetic biology foundry and unique biological codebase;
• Data.org to develop software and privacy-preserving methods that prevent pandemics though distributed analyses, as part of its Distributed Pandemic Tools program, in collaboration with the Wellcome Trust;
• Development Data Partnership to expand access to novel data from over 25 technology companies, speeding pandemic response and prevention;
• FIND to increase access to diagnostics and sequencing tools to underserved nations, unlock the potential of digital apps and connectivity for real-time collection of data from low-resource settings, and foster sentinel laboratory networks for early disease detections. This work will build on successes from the Access to Covid-19 Tools (ACT) Acceleration diagnostics pillar, in the move to create a permanent diagnostics alliance.
• Global.health, a collaboration between leading institutions including Oxford, Harvard, Northeastern, Boston Children’s Hospital, Georgetown, University of Washington, and Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security with support from Google.org, to build a global hub to enable sharing of trusted and open public health data, starting with Covid-19 line list data;
• Global Fund to strengthen national community health information systems and bring cutting edge analytics on disease reduction, surveillance and outbreak detection that support the accelerated elimination of the existing epidemics of HIV, TB, and Malaria, and provide the key platforms for future pandemic response;
• Illumina to expand existing and introduce new genomic sequencing technologies and informatic solutions that build on local capacity;
• Oxford Nanopore to promote and enable rapid, distributed sequencing for integration into both local and national public health systems, contributing towards timely data sharing through global repositories;
• Scripps Research to expand efforts to create a sensor-based early warning system for Covid-19 and other viral outbreaks through use of wearable technologies such as activity trackers. Efforts will focus on expanding, refining and diversifying Scripps Research’s ongoing DETECT study, which has already enrolled more than 38,000 participants across the United States;
• Thermo Fisher to expand access to sequencing and genetic analysis technologies globally and advocate for genetic data as a critical tool for managing global outbreaks on a local level;
• QIAGEN to collaborate on offering its sample technologies used to isolate and purify nucleic acids, QIAcuity digital PCR instruments for wastewater analysis, and NGS applications combined with QIAGEN Digital Insights bioinformatics for genomic surveillance;
• Verily to bring leading edge data science technology and innovative surveillance modalities like waste-water epidemiology to advance early pathogen detection and inform outbreak response.

Investing in convening platforms to drive coordination and alignment
To ensure alignment across multiple efforts, The Rockefeller Foundation is working with:

• FasterCures, a center of Milken Institute, to convene leaders from the public, private, and nonprofit sectors to galvanize the creation of an early warning system for pandemics that coordinates action on data and insights for response, and proactive financing for pandemic preparedness;
• Viridae, Inc. to drive the development, validation, and adoption of standards for genomic surveillance to improve consistency and quality of public health insights.

Committing to a pandemic-free future
As The Rockefeller Foundation is seeding its initial grants, the G7 is meeting to solidify their plans to prevent future pandemics. The Rockefeller Foundation looks forward to collaborating closely with other pandemic prevention efforts, including the WHO Hub for Pandemic and Epidemic Intelligence and the UK’s Global Pandemic Radar, after the G7 Summit to ensure resources are used most efficiently and effectively, and that all partners are playing to their strengths and not duplicating efforts.

The grants and collaborations announced today are a part of the Foundation’s continuing commitment to end the Covid-19 pandemic, while working to prevent the next one and catalyzing an equitable, sustainable global recovery. They form the building blocks of a pandemic prevention institute that will work alongside other initiatives to identify, analyze and inform responses to emerging outbreaks before they become global catastrophes. This global institute will help bring new, innovative ideas to the forefront of global discussions, enable leaders to better detect and manage outbreaks, and ultimately support a world free of pandemics once and for all.

From its earliest days more than a century ago, The Rockefeller Foundation has led the way to improving health outcomes in the United States and globally. During the Covid-19 pandemic, the Foundation again stepped up to support expanded access to smart testing and vaccines, worked with leaders to cement ideas for scaling genomic sequencing capacity in the United States in “Getting Ahead of the Pandemic: Accelerating National Genomic Surveillance Capacity” and accompanying implementation framework, published actionable recommendations to catalyze the role of testing and tracing within India’s pandemic response system in “The Road Ahead for Smart Testing and Tracing in India.”

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The Rockefeller Foundation
The Rockefeller Foundation is a pioneering philanthropy built on collaborative partnerships at the frontiers of science, technology, and innovation to enable individuals, families, and communities to flourish. We work to promote the well-being of humanity and make opportunity universal. Our focus is on scaling renewable energy for all, stimulating economic mobility, and ensuring equitable access to healthy and nutritious food. For more information, sign up for our newsletter at rockefellerfoundation.org and follow us on Twitter @RockefellerFdn.

Media contact
Ashley Chang
The Rockefeller Foundation
+1 917 373 9530
achang@rockfound.org

On June 7th, LSU Health Shreveport began the Pfizer-sponsored COVID-19 vaccine study for individuals age 5 to 11. The trial for this age group is currently full based on the initial goals established by Pfizer. To get on the waiting list (should Pfizer expand the number of participants), go to https://is.gd/SHVCOVIDVaccineStudy.  Currently, there are 84 sites involved in the Pfizer clinical trial that will enroll approximately 2200 subjects. LSU Health Shreveport remains the only north Louisiana site for the Pfizer vaccine clinical trial.

LSU Health Shreveport will begin enrollment of 2-4 year olds in a few weeks followed shortly thereafter by 6-24 month olds. To sign up to participate in these age groups, go to https://is.gd/SHVCOVIDVaccineStudy.

The trial remains a randomized, placebo-controlled trial of an mRNA vaccine to prevent serious illness due to the SARS-CoV2 virus. The vaccine will be administered by injection and the study will last for two years.  Further details of the study can be found at https://clinicaltrials.gov.

LSU Health Shreveport discoveries licensed by global biopharma firm BioNTech serve as a key building block of Pfizer's mRNA vaccine.

This vaccine study requires that participants be in good general health and have not been previously diagnosed with COVID-19. An assessment by the principal investigator of this study will determine individuals risk for contracting the COVID-19 by understanding participants of lifestyle and all medical conditions. All those interested in being a part of this vaccine trial should promptly complete the COVID-19 Vaccine Interest Survey. The survey can be found on the LSU Health Shreveport website at lsuhs.edu/coronavirus.

May 28 – LSU Health Shreveport continues to offer both COVID-19 vaccinations AND testing to the public Monday through Friday from 10 AM to 6PM at the LSUHS North Campus site (Old Chevyland) located at 2627 Linwood Avenue. For admission to summer camp or for travel, those needing an expedited COVID-19 test should arrive at the LSUHS North Campus between 10AM and 12PM to receive test results via email within 72 hours.

Any individuals age 12 and up are eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine. Those wanting to vaccinate children ages 12 to 15 MUST pre-register at www.lsuhs.edu. Minors under age 18 will need to have a parent present or provide a signed parental consent form in order to be vaccinated. Youth ages 12 to 17 may ONLY receive the Pfizer vaccine, but those 18 years and up may receive the Pfizer, Moderna or Johnson & Johnson vaccine. Local pediatric clinic coordinators may contact Dr. John Vanchiere if interested in partnering with LSU Health Shreveport to provide the Pfizer vaccine to their patients. No appointments are needed for first or second doses of the vaccine. 

Individuals should provide ID and insurance information when they arrive at any LSUHS vaccination site. Those that are without insurance are still eligible to receive the vaccine. While pre-registration is encouraged, it is not required to receive the vaccine. For a full schedule and to preregister, go to the LSU Health Shreveport website at www.lsuhs.edu.  

ALL LSUHS TESTING AND VACCINE SITES WILL BE CLOSED IN OBSERVANCE OF MEMORIAL DAY ON MONDAY, MAY 31.

LSUHS COVID TESTING SITES   

LSU Health Shreveport North Campus – 2627 Linwood Avenue, Shreveport           
(Former Chevyland dealership)
Monday – Friday from 10 AM – 6 PM 
Tests taken before 12 noon receive results within 72 hours via email

Louisiana State Fairgrounds – 3701 Hudson Drive, Shreveport
Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays from 8 AM – 12 PM

Youree Drive Middle School – 6008 Youree Dr, Shreveport
Mondays & Wednesdays from 1 PM – 4 PM

Galilee Baptist Church – 1500 Pierre Ave, Shreveport
Thursdays from 9 AM – 3 PM

LSUHS COVID VACCINATION SITES

LSU Health Shreveport North Campus – 2627 Linwood Avenue, Shreveport  
(Former Chevyland dealership)
Tuesday – Friday, June 1 – June 4, from 10 AM – 6 PM (Site closed on Memorial Day, May 31)
1^ST and 2^nd dose of the Pfizer and Moderna vaccine and Johnson & Johnson

Margaritaville Casino – 777 Margaritaville Way, Bossier City
Thursday, June 3, from 10 AM – 2 PM; Pfizer vaccine

Airline High School – 2801 Airline Dr, Bossier City
Thursday, June 3, from 3 PM – 6 PM; Pfizer vaccine

Haughton High School – 210 E McKinley Ave, Haughton
Thursday, June 3, from 3 PM – 6 PM; Pfizer vaccine

Bossier High School – 777 Bearkat Dr, Bossier City
Friday, June 4, from 3 PM – 6 PM; Pfizer vaccine

Parkway High School – 8000 E Texas St, Bossier City
Friday, June 4, from 3 PM – 6 PM; Pfizer vaccine

Booker T Washington Rehabilitation Center – 7605 Line Ave, Shreveport
Friday, June 4, from 3 PM – 7 PM; Pfizer vaccine

LP Vaughn Elementary & Middle School – 1500 Gold St, Natchitoches
Saturday, June 5, from 10 AM – 2 PM; Pfizer vaccine

M.R. Weaver Elementary – 520 Par Rd 508, Natchitoches
Saturday, June 5, from 10 AM – 2 PM; Pfizer vaccine

Lakeview Junior and Senior High School – 7305 LA-9, Campti
Saturday, June 5, from 10 AM – 2 PM; Pfizer vaccine

Sacred Heart Catholic Church – 4736 Lyba St, Shreveport
Sunday, June 6, from 12 PM – 3 PM; Pfizer vaccine

May 24 – LSU Health Shreveport offers COVID-19 vaccinations to the public Monday through Friday from 10 AM to 6PM at the LSUHS North Campus location. The Center of Excellence for Emerging Viral Threats (CEVT) also has scheduled vaccine opportunities for students and staff of participating Caddo and Bossier high schools. While vaccine offerings within schools are closed to the public, more information may be provided upon request.

Those wanting to vaccinate children ages 12 to 15 MUST pre-register at www.lsuhs.edu to ensure a signed consent form is completed. Any minors under age 18 will need to have a parent present or provide a signed parental consent form in order to be vaccinated. Vaccine eligibility includes all Louisiana residents AND those from out-of-state, who are 12 years of age and up. Those ages 12 to 17 may ONLY receive the Pfizer vaccine, but those 18 years and up may receive the Pfizer, Moderna or Johnson & Johnson vaccine. LSU Health Shreveport will also be assisting local pediatric clinics to provide the Pfizer vaccine for their patients. Clinic coordinators should contact Dr. John Vanchiere for more information.

No appointments are needed for first or second doses of the vaccine. 

Individuals should provide ID and insurance information when they arrive at all drive-thru location. Those that meet all qualifications but are without insurance are still eligible to receive the vaccine. While pre-registration is encouraged, it is not required to receive the vaccine. To preregister, go to the LSU Health Shreveport website at www.lsuhs.edu.  

LSU Health Shreveport North Campus 
(Former Chevyland dealership) 2627 Linwood Avenue, Shreveport
Monday - Saturday, May 24 – May 28, from 10 AM – 6 PM 
1^ST and 2^nd dose of the Pfizer and Moderna vaccine and Johnson & Johnson

Providence House
814 Cotton Street, Shreveport
Monday, May 24, from 9 AM – 11 AM, 4 PM – 6 PM
Pfizer vaccine

Benton Middle School
6136 LA-3, Benton
Monday, May 24, from 3 PM – 6 PM
Pfizer vaccine

Green Acres Middle School
2220 Airline Dr, Bossier City
Monday, May 24, from 3 PM – 6 PM
Pfizer vaccine

Cope Middle School
4814 Shed Rd, Bossier City
Tuesday, May 25, from 3 PM – 6 PM
Pfizer vaccine

Haughton Middle School
250 Champion Shores, Haughton
Tuesday, May 25, from 3 PM – 6 PM
Pfizer vaccine

Elm Grove Middle School
4301 Panther Dr, Bossier City
Wednesday, May 26, from 3 PM – 6 PM
Pfizer vaccine

Rusheon Middle School
2401 Old Minden Rd, Bossier City
Wednesday, May 26, from 3 PM – 6 PM
Pfizer vaccine

Natchitoches Parish Council on Aging
1016 Keyser Ave, Natchitoches
Thursday, May 27, from 6 AM – 9 AM
Johnson & Johnson

Holy Cross Hope House
762 Austen Pl, Shreveport
Thursday, May 27, from 10 AM – 12 PM
Johnson & Johnson

Louisiana Downs Parking Lot
8000 E Texas St, Bossier City
Friday, May 28, from 3 PM – 7 PM
Pfizer vaccine

Wesley Chapel CME
6018 Hwy 80, Princeton
Saturday, May 29, from 9 AM – 1 PM
Pfizer vaccine

New Hill CME
8725 Spring Ridge, Keithville
Saturday, May 29, from 9 AM – 1 PM
Pfizer vaccine

Booker’s Memorial
245 Booker-New Bethel Rd, Benton
Saturday, May 29, from 9 AM – 1 PM
Pfizer vaccine

May 21, 2021 – LSU Health Shreveport has identified two cases of the novel COVID-19 variant of concern, B.1.617.2, which was first identified in India and is rapidly spreading around the world.

LSU Health Shreveport sequencing also reveals that B.1.1.7, sometimes called “the U.K. variant,” remains dominant in North Louisiana, as is the case in the rest of the United States, as well. 

To date, LSU Health Shreveport’s Center for Emerging Viral Threats (CEVT) has processed more than 331,000 COVID-19 test samples of which 7629 have been positive. LSU Health Shreveport scientists have decoded the genome sequences for over 2640 of these virus samples, which represents 56% of all viral genomic surveillance data from Louisiana.

The emergence of the B.1.617.2 variant in both North Louisiana and North Texas is concerning because it is believed to be more transmissible than earlier variants. Because of its rapid spread around the world, the World Health Organization has classified B.1.617.2 as a Variant of Concern. However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has not yet done so.

The continued increase in variants that transmit more rapidly and may resist antibodies provides a powerful reminder why all eligible citizens should strongly consider getting the vaccine as quickly as possible.  Due to lack of studies on the mortality and severity of newer variants, all precautions should be taken.  Scientists remind us that the best way to stop new variants in their tracks is to get as many people as possible vaccinated, as is the case in Israel, where new cases have plummeted since the country achieved very high rates of vaccination.

While the B.1.617.2 variant may be more transmissible, early lab studies indicate that current COVID-19 vaccines provide good protection. The P.1 variant, first identified in Brazil and Japan, however, is both more transmissible and less susceptible to antibodies that protect against earlier variants, resulting in it being listed as a Variant of Concern by the CDC and WHO.  Two additional cases of the P.1 variant also showed up in the latest batch of samples sequenced by LSU Health Shreveport, bringing the total detected from Louisiana to 18.  “Importantly, even though some of these variants, such as P.1, are able to re-infect people who already had recovered from an earlier case of COVID-19, our current vaccines do a magnificent job protecting people from severe disease,” said Dr. Kamil, associate professor of microbiology and immunology at LSU Health Shreveport.  “Continued public health surveillance through genome sequencing for viral variants remains an important mission of CEVT at LSU Health Shreveport to help protect the region and entire state during this pandemic,” said Dr. Chris Kevil, Vice Chancellor for Research at LSU Health Shreveport.

May 20, 2021 - LSU Health Shreveport continues to offer COVID-19 testing, Monday through Friday, from 10AM to 6PM at the LSUHS North Campus location (Old Chevyland) located at 2627 Linwood Avenue. It is recommended that those needing to show proof a negative COVID-19 test to travel or admission to summer camps should arrive at the LSUHS North Campus between 10AM and 12PM to secure an expedited test. Results will be provided via email within 72 hours for testing done at that location from 10AM to 12PM.

An appointment is not needed to schedule a COVID-19 Test. Individuals should provide ID and insurance information when they arrive at this drive-thru location. Those that meet all qualifications but are without insurance are still eligible to receive a COVID-19 test. 

For more information on COVID-19 testing and other related inquires, visit the LSU Health Shreveport website at www.lsuhs.edu/testing.

'The risk to your child and to your family is too great'

Baton Rouge, La. (May 20, 2020) — LSU Health Shreveport faculty, Maroun Mhanna, MD, MPH, Chairman, Department of Pediatrics and John A. Vanchiere, MD, PhD, Professor of Pediatrics and Immediate Past President of The Louisiana Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics, along with leading pediatricians from across the state and Louisiana Department of Health State Health Officer Dr. Joseph Kanter have released a public letter urging parents and caregivers to protect their eligible children against COVID-19 with the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. In the letter, pediatricians caring for children throughout Louisiana make the case that the vaccines are the best way for this age group to safely return to school and to summer activities like camp, and vital for the protection of families.

The letter includes signatories representing the Louisiana Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics; LSU Health New Orleans School of Medicine; Tulane University School of Medicine; Ochsner Health; Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Health and LSU Health Shreveport.

The FDA authorized the emergency use of the Pfizer vaccine for this age group last week, and the CDC recommended the use of the vaccine for this age group on May 12.

###

About the Louisiana Department of Health 

The Louisiana Department of Health strives to protect and promote health statewide and to ensure access to medical, preventive and rehabilitative services for all state residents. The Louisiana Department of Health includes the Office of Public Health, Office of Aging & Adult Services, Office of Behavioral Health, Office for Citizens with Developmental Disabilities, and Healthy Louisiana (Medicaid). To learn more, visit www.ldh.la.gov or follow us on Twitter, Facebook or our blog. Contact: Sean Ellis 225-342-9010, sean.ellis@la.gov  or Mindy Faciane 225-342-0152, mindy.faciane@la.gov or Kevin Litten 225-219-3542, kevin.litten@la.gov

Effective immediately LSU Health Shreveport will begin administering the Pfizer vaccine to those ages 12 and up at all LSUHS vaccination sites. Those wanting to vaccinate children ages 12 to 15 MUST pre-register at www.lsuhs.edu to ensure a signed consent form is completed. Any minors under age 18 will need to have a parent present or provide a signed parental consent form in order to be vaccinated. Those ages 12-17 may ONLY receive the Pfizer vaccine, but those 18 years and up may receive the Pfizer, Moderna or Johnson & Johnson vaccine. LSU Health Shreveport will also be assisting local pediatric clinics to provide the Pfizer vaccine for their patients. Clinic coordinators should contact Dr. John Vanchiere for more information.

Vaccine eligibility continues to include all Louisiana residents AND those from out-of-state, who are 16 years of age and up. LSU Health Shreveport has resumed offering of the Johnson and Johnson vaccine which may be requested at the LSUHS North Campus location when available.

No appointments are needed for first or second doses of the vaccine. 

Individuals should provide ID and insurance information when they arrive at all drive-thru location. Those that meet all qualifications but are without insurance are still eligible to receive the vaccine. While pre-registration is encouraged, it is not required to receive the vaccine. To preregister, go to the LSU Health Shreveport website at www.lsuhs.edu.  

LSU Health Shreveport North Campus 
(Former Chevyland dealership) 2627 Linwood Avenue, Shreveport 
Monday - Friday, May 17 – May 21, from 10 AM – 6 PM / OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
1^ST and 2^nd dose of the Pfizer and Moderna vaccine and Johnson & Johnson

Kingdom Life Church
3089 Hwy 71, Campti / Tuesday, May 18, from 3 PM – 7 PM
Pfizer vaccine

Providence House
814 Cotton Street, Shreveport / Wednesday, May 19, from 9 AM – 11 AM, 4 PM – 6 PM
Johnson & Johnson

Boomtown Casino Hotel
300 Riverside Drive, Bossier City / Thursday, May 20, from 1 PM – 4 PM
Pfizer vaccine

Horseshoe Casino Parking Lot
711 Horseshoe Boulevard, Bossier City / Friday, May 21, from 3 PM – 7 PM
Pfizer vaccine

Williams Memorial CME Temple
7288 Greenwood Road, Shreveport / Saturday, May 22, from 9 AM – 1 PM
Pfizer vaccine

Lane Chapel CME
1007 Norma Street, Shreveport / Saturday, May 22, from 9 AM – 1 PM
Pfizer vaccine

Barksdale Hooter Park
100 Hooter Park Drive, Bossier City / Saturday, May 22, from 2 PM – 5 PM
Pfizer vaccine

LSU Health Shreveport offers COVID-19 vaccinations to the public Monday through Friday from 10 AM to 6PM at the LSUHS North Campus location. The Center of Excellence for Emerging Viral Threats (CEVT) also has scheduled vaccine opportunities for students and staff of participating Caddo and Bossier high schools. While vaccine offerings within schools are closed to the public, more information may be provided upon request.

Vaccine eligibility includes all Louisiana residents AND those from out-of-state, who are 16 years of age and up. Minors under age 18 will need to have a parent present or provide a signed parental consent form in order to be vaccinated. Those ages 16 and 17 may ONLY receive the Pfizer vaccine, but those 18 years and up may receive the Pfizer, Moderna or Johnson & Johnson vaccine. LSU Health Shreveport has resumed offering of the Johnson and Johnson vaccine which may be requested at the LSUHS North Campus location.

No appointments are needed for first or second doses of the vaccine. 

Individuals should provide ID and insurance information when they arrive at all drive-thru location. Those that meet all qualifications but are without insurance are still eligible to receive the vaccine. While pre-registration is encouraged, it is not required to receive the vaccine. To preregister, go to the LSU Health Shreveport website at www.lsuhs.edu.  

LSU Health Shreveport North Campus 
(Former Chevyland dealership) 2627 Linwood Avenue, Shreveport           
Monday - Friday, May 10 – May 14, from 10 AM – 6 PM 
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
1^ST and 2^nd dose of the Pfizer and Moderna vaccine and Johnson & Johnson

Valencia Recreation Center; hosted by St. Mary AME Church
1800 Viking Drive, Shreveport
Monday, May 10, from 2 PM – 6 PM
Pfizer vaccine

Louisiana State University (LSUS)
1 University Place, Shreveport
Tuesday, May 11, from 10 AM – 2 PM
Pfizer vaccine

Bossier Parish Community College (BPCC)
6220 E Texas St, Bossier City
Tuesday, May 11, from 10 AM – 2 PM
Pfizer vaccine

Margaritaville Casino
777 Margaritaville Way, Bossier City
Thursday, May 13, from 10 AM – 2 PM
Pfizer vaccine

###

CONTACT: 
Jazmin Jernigan, Public Relations Coordinator
Office: 318-675-8789, Cell: 318-716-8606, jazmin.jernigan@lsuhs.edu

May 3, 2021 – LSU Health Shreveport offers COVID-19 vaccinations to the public Monday through Friday from 10 AM to 6PM at the LSUHS North Campus location. The Center of Excellence for Emerging Viral Threats (CEVT) also has scheduled vaccine opportunities for students and staff of participating Caddo and Bossier high schools. While vaccine offerings within schools are closed to the public, more information may be provided upon request.

Vaccine eligibility includes all Louisiana residents AND those from out-of-state who are 16 years of age and up. Minors under age 18 will need to have a parent present or provide a signed parental consent form in order to be vaccinated. Those ages 16 and 17 may ONLY receive the Pfizer vaccine, but those 18 years and up may receive the Pfizer, Moderna or Johnson & Johnson vaccine. LSU Health Shreveport has resumed offering of the Johnson and Johnson vaccine which may be requested at the LSUHS North Campus location.

No appointments are needed for first or second doses of the vaccine. 

Individuals should provide ID and insurance information when they arrive at all drive-thru location. Those that meet all qualifications but are without insurance are still eligible to receive the vaccine. While pre-registration is encouraged, it is not required to receive the vaccine. To preregister, go to the LSU Health Shreveport website at www.lsuhs.edu.  

LSU Health Shreveport North Campus 
(Former Chevyland dealership) 2627 Linwood Avenue, Shreveport
Monday - Friday, May 3 – May 7, from 10 AM – 6 PM 
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
1^ST and 2^nd dose of the Pfizer and Moderna and Johnson & Johnson vaccine

Galilee Baptist Church
1500 Pierre Ave, Shreveport
Tuesday, May 4, from 1 PM – 5 PM
Pfizer vaccine

Louisiana Downs Parking Lot
8000 E Texas St, Bossier City
Friday, May 7, from 3 PM – 7 PM
Pfizer vaccine

Louisiana State Fair
3701 Hudson Drive, Shreveport
Saturday, May 8, from 10 AM – 4 PM
Pfizer vaccine

Wesley Chapel CME
6018 Hwy 80, Princeton
Saturday, May 8, from 9 AM – 1 PM
Pfizer vaccine

New Hill CME
8725 Spring Ridge, Keithville
Saturday, May 8, from 9 AM – 1 PM
Pfizer vaccine

Booker’s Memorial
245 Booker-New Bethel Rd, Benton
Saturday, May 8, from 9 PM – 1 PM
Pfizer vaccine

April 22 – The LSU Health Shreveport large-scale vaccination site at the Louisiana State Fairgrounds will be closing due to the arrival of the State Fair of Louisiana. LSU Health Shreveport will continue to offer drive-thru vaccine sites and will release new site locations as more information becomes available. The LSUHS North Campus location will now be open to the public Monday through Friday, from 10 AM to 6 PM. Eligibility extends to include all individuals 16 years of age and up. Minors under age 18 will need to have a parent present in person in order to be vaccinated. Those ages 16 and 17 may ONLY receive the Pfizer vaccine, but those 18 years and up may receive the Pfizer or Moderna. As per CDC and FDA recommendations, LSU Health Shreveport has chosen to pause offering of the Johnson and Johnson vaccine until further information is made available.

No appointments are needed for first or second doses of the vaccine. 

Individuals should provide ID and insurance information when they arrive to the drive-thru site, and they will remain in the vehicle to receive the vaccine. Those that meet all qualifications but are without insurance are still eligible to receive the vaccine. While pre-registration is encouraged, it is not required to receive the vaccine. To preregister, go to the LSU Health Shreveport website at www.lsuhs.edu.  

LSU Health Shreveport North Campus 
(Former Chevyland dealership) 2627 Linwood Avenue, Shreveport            

• Monday - Friday, April 26 – April 30, from 10 AM – 6 PM 
  OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
  1^ST and 2^nd dose of the Pfizer vaccine

Louisiana State Fairgrounds
3701 Hudson Drive, Shreveport

• NO VACCINE CLINICS 
• This location is closed until further notice due to the arrival of the Louisiana State Fair.
• A vaccination booth will be available at the LA State Fair on Saturday, May 1, from 1 PM – 4 PM

Kingdom Life Church
3089 Hwy 71, Campti           

• Tuesday, April 27, from 3 PM – 7 PM 
  Pfizer vaccine

Horseshoe Casino Parking Lot
711 Horseshoe Boulevard, Bossier City

• Friday, April 30, from 3 PM – 7 PM
  Pfizer vaccine

Williams Memorial CME Temple
1501 Peabody Street, Shreveport

• Saturday, May 1, from 9 AM – 1 PM
  Pfizer vaccine

Lane Chapel CME
1007 Norma Street, Shreveport

• Saturday, May 1, from 9 AM – 1 PM
  Pfizer vaccine

Praise Temple Full Gospel Baptist Cathedral
4725 Greenwood Road, Shreveport

• Saturday, May 1, from 2 PM – 5 PM
  Pfizer vaccine

###

CONTACT: 
Jazmin Jernigan, Public Relations Coordinator
Office: 318-675-8789, Cell: 318-716-8606, jazmin.jernigan@lsuhs.edu

Link to PDF of Press Release

March 18, 2021 – In order to accommodate those who work standard hours throughout the workweek, and to maintain the health and wellbeing of CEEVT staff and volunteers, several changes are being made to the vaccination schedule moving forward. Please be assured that the delay of the second dose of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine does not reduce the effectiveness of the vaccine. Re-registration is not required for second doses at any site.

To date, LSU Health Shreveport has administered over 48,000 vaccines as the first large-scale vaccine clinic in Louisiana. All locations are drive-thru vaccination sites. Individuals should provide ID and insurance information when they arrive to any site for vaccination. Those that meet all other qualifications, but are without insurance are still eligible to receive the vaccine.

The list of those eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine has expanded to include Louisiana residents ages 16-64 that have at least one qualifying condition. Those ages 16 and 17 may ONLY receive the Pfizer vaccine, but those 18 years and up may receive the Pfizer, Moderna or Johnson and Johnson vaccine. Individuals 16-64 must self-attest at least one of the qualifying conditions to be eligible for vaccination. The full list of qualifying health conditions can be found on the Louisiana Department of Health’s website and at www.lsuhs.edu. Residents in this group may indicate their pre-existing condition(s) when pre-registering at www.lsuhs.edu.  You do not need an appointment to get the vaccine.

The following groups remain eligible for vaccination: Residents age 65 and older; pregnant persons, dialysis providers and patients; health care and dental clinic workers; home care providers and recipients; sign language interpreters and clients who are deaf and blind; lab, mortuary and pharmacy staff; allied health school students, emergency response personnel; and the state’s Unified Command Group.

While pre-registration is preferred and encouraged, it is not required to receive a vaccine.  The goal of LSUHS community vaccine sites is to provide every eligible citizen with access to the vaccine as soon as possible. To preregister, go to the LSU Health Shreveport website at www.lsuhs.edu. 

Below are important changes to the LSU Health Shreveport COVID-19 Vaccination schedule for March 20-27, 2021:

LSU Health Shreveport North Campus

(Former Chevyland dealership) 2627 Linwood Avenue, Shreveport             

SATURDAY, MARCH 20
9 AM – 12 Noon, EDUCATORS ONLY
1 PM – 4 PM, OPEN TO PUBLIC

Johnson & Johnson vaccine    
Educators include teachers, support staff, daycare workers. Teachers, support staff and daycare workers should bring proof of employment along with id and insurance info.

TUESDAY, MARCH 23
5 PM – 9 PM, OPEN TO PUBLIC
1^ST dose of the Pfizer vaccine 

Louisiana State Fairgrounds

3701 Hudson Drive, Shreveport 

MONDAY, MARCH 22 / CLOSED – NO VACCINATIONS

TUESDAY, MARCH 23 / CLOSED – NO VACCINATIONS

March 12, 2021 – LSU Health Shreveport continues to offer community vaccine clinics to support Northwest Louisiana’s COVID-19 vaccination efforts. To date, LSU Health Shreveport has administered over 43,400 vaccines as the first large-scale vaccine clinic in Louisiana. All locations are drive-thru vaccination sites.

In compliance with the recent announcement by Governor Edwards, the list of those eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine has expanded to include Louisiana residents ages 16-64 that have at least one qualifying condition. Individuals must acknowledge they have at least one of the qualifying conditions to be eligible for vaccination. Qualifying health conditions are listed on the Louisiana Department of Health’s website and at www.lsuhs.edu. Residents in the new age range will be able to indicate their pre-existing condition(s) when pre-registering at www.lsuhs.edu.  You do not need an appointment to get the vaccine.

Those ages 16 and 17 may ONLY receive the Pfizer vaccine, but those 18 years and up may receive the Pfizer, Moderna or Johnson and Johnson vaccine.

The following groups remain eligible for vaccination: Residents age 65 and older; pregnant persons, dialysis providers and patients; health care and dental clinic workers; home care providers and recipients; sign language interpreters and clients who are deaf and blind; lab, mortuary and pharmacy staff; allied health school students, emergency response personnel; and the state’s Unified Command Group.

While pre-registration is preferred and encouraged, it is not required to receive a vaccine.  The goal of our community vaccine site is to provide every eligible citizen with access to the vaccine as soon as possible.  To preregister, go to the LSU Health Shreveport website at www.lsuhs.edu. All Individuals should bring ID and insurance information when they come to any site for vaccination.

Re-registration is not required for second doses at any site.

COMMUNITY VACCINE SITES WEEK OF MARCH 13-20

All locations listed below offer 1^st and 2^nd doses of vaccine.

TOMORROW, SATURDAY, MARCH 13
Louisiana State Fairgrounds
Held in partnership with CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier Health Systems and Willis-Knighton Health System
3701 Hudson Drive, Shreveport
Saturday, March 13
9am – 2pm
Johnson & Johnson vaccine

Logansport High School
17228 Hwy 5, Logansport
Saturday, March 13
9am – 1pm
Johnson & Johnson vaccine

MONDAY – FRIDAY, MARCH 15 – 19
Louisiana State Fairgrounds
Held in partnership with CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier Health Systems and Willis-Knighton Health System
3701 Hudson Drive, Shreveport
Monday – Friday, March 15 – 19
10am – 6pm                                
Pfizer vaccine                                                           

LSU Health Shreveport North Campus
(Former Chevyland dealership) 2627 Linwood Avenue, Shreveport
This vaccine site is exclusive to teachers, support staff, daycare workers healthcare and dental clinic workers; home care providers and recipients; sign language interpreters and clients who are deaf and blind; lab, mortuary and pharmacy staff; allied health school students, emergency response personnel; and the state’s Unified Command Group. Teachers, support staff and daycare workers should bring proof of employment along with id and insurance info.

Monday – Friday, March 15 – 19
12pm – 5pm
Pfizer vaccine

Minden – Webster Parish Fairgrounds
800 Goodwill Drive, Minden
Tuesday, March 16
10am – 2pm
Johnson & Johnson for first dose of vaccine
Second dose of Moderna will be administered

SATURDAY, MARCH 20 
Peaceful Rest Missionary Baptist Church
8200 St. Vincent Ave., Shreveport
Saturday, March 20
9am – 12pm
Pfizer vaccine

Praise Temple Full Gospel Baptist Cathedral
4725 Greenwood Rd., Shreveport 
Saturday, March 20
2pm – 5pm
Pfizer vaccine

LSU Health Shreveport North Campus - see above description of those eligible to receive the vaccine at this clinic
(Former Chevyland dealership) 2627 Linwood Avenue, Shreveport
Saturday, March 20
9am – 4pm
Pfizer vaccine

UPCOMING VACCINE SITES

Brookshire Grocery Arena
Held in conjunction with community hospital partners
2000 Centurylink Center Drive, Bossier City
This vaccine clinic originally scheduled for March 27 and 28 has been postponed until further notice.

March 9, 2021 – LSU Health Shreveport continues to offer community vaccine clinics to support Northwest Louisiana’s COVID-19 vaccination efforts. To date, LSU Health Shreveport has administered over 40,000 vaccines as the first large-scale vaccine clinic in Louisiana. All locations are drive-thru vaccination sites.

In compliance with the recent announcement by Governor Edwards, the list of those eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine has expanded to include Louisiana residents ages 18-64 that have at least one qualifying conditions.  Individuals must acknowledge they have at least one of the qualifying conditions to be eligible for vaccination. Qualifying health conditions are listed on the Louisiana Department of Health’s website. Residents in the new age range will be able to indicate their pre-existing condition(s) when pre-registering at www.lsuhs.edu.

LSU Health Shreveport, in collaboration with the Louisiana Department of Health Office of Region 7, continues to offer a vaccine site dedicated exclusively to Louisiana educators (public, private and parochial), K-12 support staff, and day care workers. In an effort to minimize wait times, those receiving vaccine at the Chevyland site should pre-register. No appointments are provided or needed to receive the vaccine but pre-registration is requested. All individuals should bring an ID, and proof of working as a teacher or support staff such as their W-2, pay stub, or badge, and insurance information.

The following groups remain eligible for vaccination: Residents age 65 and older; dialysis providers and patients; health care and dental clinic workers; home care providers and recipients; sign language interpreters and clients who are deaf and blind; lab, mortuary and pharmacy staff; allied health school students, emergency response personnel; and the state’s Unified Command Group.

While pre-registration is preferred and encouraged, particularly for those 18-64 with underlying health conditions, pre-registration is NOT a requirement to get vaccinated.  The goal of our community vaccine site is to provide every eligible citizen with access to the vaccine as soon as possible.  To preregister, go to the LSU Health Shreveport website at www.lsuhs.edu. All Individuals should bring ID and insurance information when they come to any site for vaccination. Re-registration is not required for second doses at any site.

COMMUNITY VACCINE SITES WEEK OF MARCH 9-13

All locations listed below offer 1^st and 2^nd doses of vaccine.

Louisiana State Fairgrounds
Held in partnership with CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier Health System & Willis-Knighton Health System
3701 Hudson Drive, Shreveport
Monday – Friday, March 8 – 12
10 am- 6pm (NEW HOURS)
Pfizer vaccine

Saturday, March 13
9am – 2pm
Johnson & Johnson vaccine

LSU Health Shreveport North Campus
(Former Chevyland dealership) 2627 Linwood Avenue, Shreveport
Site exclusive to teachers, support staff, daycare workers and healthcare workers | Pfizer vaccine
Monday – Friday, March 8 – 12
12 pm – 5pm (NEW HOURS)

Saturday, March 20
9 am – 4pm

This vaccine clinic is for health care and dental clinic workers; home care providers and recipients; sign language interpreters and clients who are deaf and blind; lab, mortuary and pharmacy staff; allied health school students, emergency response personnel; and the state’s Unified Command Group.

Mansfield -Former Walmart Parking Lot
1043 Washington
Thursday, March 11
10am – 2pm
Johnson & Johnson for first dose of vaccine
Second dose of Moderna will be administered

Logansport High School
17228 Hwy 5, Logansport
Saturday, March 13
9am – 1pm
J &J vaccine

UPCOMING VACCINE SITES

Brookshire’s Grocery Arena
Held in conjunction with community hospital partners  

2000 Centurylink Center Drive, Bossier City
Site open to the public with dedicated hours for Louisiana educators | Johnson & Johnson vaccine
Saturday, March 27 - 9am – 4pm
Sunday, March 28 -  1pm – 4pm

Minden – Webster Parish Fairgrounds
800 Goodwill Drive
Tuesday, March 16
10am-2pm
Johnson & Johnson first doses
Moderna second doses to be administered

PRESS RELEASE – March 5, 2021
LSU Health Shreveport continues to offer community vaccine clinics to support Northwest Louisiana’s COVID-19 vaccination efforts. To date, LSU Health Shreveport has administered over 30,000 vaccines as the first large-scale vaccine clinic in Louisiana. All locations are drive-thru vaccination sites.

LSU Health Shreveport in collaboration with the Louisiana Department of Health Office of Region 7 is offering a vaccine site at 2627 Linwood Avenue exclusively for Louisiana educators (public, private and parochial), K-12 support staff, and day care workers. In an effort to minimize wait times, this specific group should pre-register at https://redcap.link/NWLAEducators. No appointments are provided or needed to receive the vaccine but pre-registration is requested. All individuals should an ID, proof of working as a teacher or support staff such as their W-2, pay stub, or badge, and insurance information.

The list of those now eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine includes pregnant women and residents with qualifying health conditions age 55-64. Individuals ages 55-64 must have at least one of the qualifying conditions to be eligible for vaccination.  Qualifying health conditions are listed on the Louisiana Department of Health’s website and include cancer, chronic kidney disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, Down syndrome, several heart conditions, obesity, sickle cell disease, smoking and Type 2 diabetes. Residents in the new age range will be able to indicate their pre-existing condition(s) when pre-registering at www.lsuhs.edu.

The following groups remain eligible for vaccination: Residents age 65 and older; dialysis providers and patients; health care and dental clinic workers; home care providers and recipients; sign language interpreters and clients who are deaf and blind; lab, mortuary and pharmacy staff; allied health school students, emergency response personnel; and the state’s Unified Command Group.

While pre-registration is preferred and encouraged, particularly for those 55-64 with underlying health conditions, pre-registration is NOT a requirement to get vaccinated.  The goal of our community vaccine site is to provide every eligible citizen with access to the vaccine as soon as possible.  To preregister, go to the LSU Health Shreveport website at www.lsuhs.edu. All Individuals should bring ID and insurance information when they come to any site for vaccination. Re-registration is not required for second doses at any site.

COMMUNITY VACCINE SITES

Brookshire Grocery Arena
Held in partnership with Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport
2000 Centurylink Center Drive, Bossier City
Site open to the public with dedicated hours for Louisiana educators
Saturday, March 6, 9am – 4pm

Teachers, support staff and daycare workers can go to the site anytime between 9 and 4, but the site will have 2 dedicated lanes at the Brookshire’s site on Saturday from 2pm-4pm. All other eligible individuals seeking to get the vaccine should go to either one of the sites listed below. All locations listed below offer 1^st and 2^nd doses of vaccine.
Chevyland/LSU Health Shreveport North Campus
(Former Chevyland dealership) 2627 Linwood Avenue, Shreveport
Site exclusive to teachers, support staff, daycare workers and healthcare workers
ID, insurance information and proof you are an educator or healthcare worker is required to receive vaccine. We ask that educators, support staff and daycare workers not bring family members to this location to get the vaccine as the general public is being offered the vaccine at the Louisiana State Fair Grounds. Educators may access vaccine at the Louisiana State Fair Grounds from 8am-4pm daily if they choose and/or want to be vaccinated at the same time as a family member. Teachers may carpool to get the vaccine as multiple individuals in a single car may receive vaccine. The Chevyland location is ONLY for healthcare workers, teachers, school support staff and daycare workers.
Monday – Friday
March 8-12, 12 pm – 5pm (new hours)

Louisiana State Fairgrounds
Held in partnership with CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier
Health System & Willis-Knighton Health System
3701 Hudson Drive, Shreveport
Site open to the public
Monday – Friday March 8 – 12, 8am – 4pm

Galilee Baptist Church
Offered in partnership with CHRISTUS Shreveport
Health System and Willis-Knighton Health System
1500 Pierre Street, Shreveport
Thursday, March 11, 9am – 3pm

Arcadia Outlet Mall
700 Factory Outlet, Arcadia
Tuesday, March 9, 10am – 2pm

Former Walmart Parking Lot
1043 Washington, Mansfield
Thursday, March 11, 10am – 2pm

March 4, 2021 - LSU Health Shreveport and Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport are bringing the first large scale vaccination clinic to Bossier City on Saturday, March 6.  Four thousand three hundred (4300) doses of the Johnson and Johnson COVID-19 vaccine will be available during the twelve-lane vaccination clinic to be held at the Brookshire Grocery Arena located at 2400 Century Link Center Drive from 9 am to 4 pm.  (Entrance to the vaccine clinic will be on the east side of the Arena. Direct access from Arthur Teague Parkway will not be available.)  

While pre-registration is strongly encouraged, it is NOT required.  To preregister, go to the LSU Health Shreveport website at www.lsuhs.edu and select the Bossier vaccine site.  Everyone should bring a photo ID and their insurance information.  K-12 teachers, educational support staff and day care worker, should bring proof of their place of employment such as an ID badge or pay stub.  There will be two dedicated lanes for K-12 teachers, staff and day care workers to receive their vaccine from 2-4pm.

In addition to teachers, support staff and daycare workers, others currently eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine under guidelines of the Louisiana Department of Health are:

• Individuals age 65 and older
• Pregnant women
• Those age 55-64 with qualifying health conditions. Individuals ages 55-64 must have at least one of the following conditions to be eligible for vaccination:  cancer, chronic kidney disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, Down syndrome, heart disease, obesity, sickle cell disease, smoking and Type 2 diabetes. Residents in the 55-64 year old age range must indicate their pre-existing condition(s) when pre-registering at www.lsuhs.edu.
• NOTE: Hypertension (high blood pressure) is NOT a qualifying condition at this time.

This vaccine clinic is supported by the Louisiana Department of Health, the Region 7 Office of Public Health, the Louisiana National Guard along with students and staff of LSU Health Shreveport, Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport staff, nursing students from BPCC, SUSLA and Northwestern University, and staff from many area healthcare providers making this a true community effort. 

At 11:30 am on Saturday, leadership from LSU Health Shreveport and Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport will be available to address questions from the media.  Please plan to meet at the volunteer/staff clinic. 

March 2, 2021 - LSU Health Shreveport announced this evening it will provide second doses of the Pfizer vaccine to individuals who received their first vaccine at a Walgreens Pharmacy.  This announcement is being made due to individuals being notified by Walgreens that the second dose of the vaccine is not available.

Individuals should bring their vaccine card, ID and proof of insurance if available.  Second doses of the Pfizer vaccine only (no Moderna) will be available March 3-5 at the Louisiana State Fair Grounds from 8 am to 4pm.

This large scale community vaccine clinic is made possible by LSU Health Shreveport, CHRISTUS Shreveport Bossier Health System and Willis-Knighton Health System with support from the Louisiana Department of Health, Region 7 Office of Public Health, the Louisiana National Guard and BPCC nursing students and numerous community volunteers.

PRESS RELEASE – February 26, 2021

LSU Health Shreveport continues to offer community vaccine clinics to support Northwest Louisiana’s COVID-19 vaccination efforts. To date, LSU Health Shreveport has administered over 30,000 vaccines as the first large-scale vaccine clinic in Louisiana. Individuals will remain in their vehicle to receive vaccine, and will wait for evaluation for 15 minutes after the vaccine.

LSU Health Shreveport in collaboration with the Louisiana Department of Health Office of Region 7 is offering a vaccine site at 2627 Linwood Avenue exclusively for Louisiana educators (public, private and parochial), K-12 support staff, and day care workers. In an effort to minimize wait times, this specific group should pre-register at https://redcap.link/NWLAEducators. No appointments are provided or needed to receive the vaccine but pre-registration is requested. All individuals should an ID, proof of working as a teacher or support staff such as their W-2, pay stub, or badge, and insurance information.

The list of those now eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine includes pregnant women and residents with qualifying health conditions age 55-64. Individuals ages 55-64 must have at least one of the qualifying conditions to be eligible for vaccination. Qualifying health conditions are listed on the Louisiana Department of Health’s website and include cancer, chronic kidney disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, Down syndrome, several heart conditions, obesity, sickle cell disease, smoking and Type 2 diabetes. Residents in the new age range will be able to indicate their pre-existing condition(s) when pre-registering at www.lsuhs.edu.

The following groups remain eligible for vaccination: Residents age 65 and older; dialysis providers and patients; health care and dental clinic workers; home care providers and recipients; sign language interpreters and clients who are deaf and blind; lab, mortuary and pharmacy staff; allied health school students, emergency response personnel; and the state’s Unified Command Group.

While pre-registration is preferred and encouraged, particularly for those 55-64 with underlying health conditions, pre-registration is NOT a requirement to get vaccinated. The goal of our community vaccine site is to provide every eligible citizen with access to the vaccine as soon as possible. To preregister, go to the LSU Health Shreveport website at www.lsuhs.edu. All Individuals should bring ID and insurance information when they come to any site for vaccination. Re-registration is not required for second doses at any site.

COMMUNITY VACCINE SITES

Chevyland/LSU Health Shreveport North Campus (Former Chevyland dealership) 2627 Linwood Avenue, Shreveport Site exclusive to teachers, support staff, daycare workers and healthcare workers ID, insurance information and proof you are an educator or healthcare worker is required to receive vaccine.

We ask that educators, support staff and daycare workers not bring family members to this location to get the vaccine as the general public is being offered the vaccine at the Louisiana State Fair Grounds. Educators may access vaccine at the Louisiana State Fair Grounds from 8am-4pm daily if they choose and/or want to be vaccinated at the same time as a family member. Teachers may carpool to get the vaccine as multiple individuals in a single car may receive vaccine.

The Chevyland location is ONLY for healthcare workers, teachers, school support staff and daycare workers.
Monday – Friday March 1-5 and March 8-12
8am - 5pm

Brookshire Grocery Arena Held in partnership with Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport
2000 Centurylink Center Drive, Bossier City Site open to the public with dedicated hours for Louisiana educators Saturday, March 6
9am – 4pm

Teachers, support staff and daycare workers will have 2 dedicated lanes at the Brookshire’s site on Saturday from 2pm-4pm. All other eligible individuals seeking to get the vaccine should go to either one of the sites listed below.

Louisiana State Fairgrounds
Held in partnership with CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier Health System & Willis-Knighton Health System 3701 Hudson Drive, Shreveport Site open to the public
Monday – Friday March 1-5 and March 8-12
8am – 4pm

Galilee Baptist Church
Offered in partnership with CHRISTUS Shreveport Health System and Willis-Knighton Health System
1500 Pierre Street, Shreveport
Thursdays, March 4 and March 11
9am – 3pm

River Town Market
5115 Cut Off Road, Coushatta
Thursday, March 4 10am – 2pm

Arcadia Outlet Mall
700 Factory Outlet, Arcadia
Tuesday, March 9 10am – 2pm

Former Walmart Parking Lot
1043 Washington, Mansfield
Thursday, March 11 10am – 2pm

PRESS RELEASE – February 22, 2021
LSU Health Shreveport in collaboration with the Louisiana Department of Health Office of Region 7 is offering a vaccine site at 2627 Linwood Avenue for Caddo teachers (public, private and parochial), K-12 support staff, and day care workers. These specific groups should pre-register at https://redcap.link/NWLAEducators.  All Caddo parish teachers are being informed by Caddo Parish School Board as to whether they will be accessing the vaccine at 2627 Linwood Avenue or another designated site only for Caddo parish teachers. 

The vaccine site at 2627 Linwood remains open to healthcare workers.

Chevyland/LSU Health Shreveport North Campus – 2627 Linwood Avenue – ID, insurance information and proof you are an educator or healthcare worker is required to receive vaccine

Tuesday – Friday, February 22-26
2pm- 5pm
The above times are available ONLY for healthcare workers, teachers, school support staff and daycare workers.  All others who are eligible to receive vaccine should go to the Louisiana State Fair Grounds. 

Saturday, February 27
9am – 4pm
The Saturday vaccination clinic is for teachers, school support staff and daycare workers ONLY.  

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All other eligible individuals seeking to get the vaccine in Shreveport should go to either the Louisiana State Fair Grounds,  Galilee Baptist Church or Webster Parish Fair Grounds on times and dates detailed below.  Others currently eligible to receive the vaccine are pregnant women, residents age 55-64 with qualifying health conditions and all those age 65 and above.  

Qualifying health conditions are listed on the Louisiana Department of Health’s website and include cancer, chronic kidney disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, Down syndrome, several heart conditions, obesity, sickle cell disease, smoking and Type 2 diabetes. Residents in the new age range will be able to indicate their pre-existing condition(s) when registering at www.lsuhs.edu.

The following groups remain eligible for vaccination: Residents age 65 and older; dialysis providers and patients; health care and dental clinic workers; home care providers and recipients; sign language interpreters and clients who are deaf and blind; lab, mortuary and pharmacy staff; allied health school students, emergency response personnel; and the state’s Unified Command Group.

While pre-registration is preferred and encouraged, particularly for those 55-64 with underlying health conditions, pre-registration is NOT a requirement to get vaccinated.  To preregister, go to the LSU Health Shreveport website at www.lsuhs.edu.

All individuals regardless of whether they are pre-registered or not should bring ID and insurance information when they come to the site for vaccination.  

SHREVEPORT LOCATIONS

1. Louisiana State Fair Grounds - 3701 Hudson Drive
   Monday – Friday (February 22-26)
   8 am – 4 pm
   This location is for first and second doses of the vaccine.  Appointments within a two hour time block will be emailed no later than Saturday for all those who have pre-registered.   Those receiving the second vaccine do NOT need an appointment and are encouraged to come between 8 am and noon when a separate tent/lanes will be available for those getting their second dose. Re-registration is not required for second doses at any site.
2. Galilee Baptist Church  - 1500 Pierre Street
   Thursday, February 25
   9 am – 3pm     

MINDEN LOCATION
Webster Parish Fair Grounds at 800 Goodwill Drive
Tuesday, February 23
10 am –3pm
This location is for first doses only.

PRESS RELEASE – February 19, 2021
LSU Health Shreveport is resuming their large-scale community vaccine clinics effective Monday, February 22.  The list of those eligible to receive the vaccine has expanded to include Louisiana teachers, school support staff, day care workers, pregnant women and residents age 55-64 with qualifying health conditions.

Individuals ages 55-64 must have at least one of the qualifying conditions to be eligible for vaccination.  Qualifying health conditions are listed on the Louisiana Department of Health’s website and include cancer, chronic kidney disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, Down syndrome, several heart conditions, obesity, sickle cell disease, smoking and Type 2 diabetes. Residents in the new age range will be able to indicate their pre-existing condition(s) when registering at www.lsuhs.edu.

The following groups remain eligible for vaccination: Residents age 65 and older; dialysis providers and patients; health care and dental clinic workers; home care providers and recipients; sign language interpreters and clients who are deaf and blind; lab, mortuary and pharmacy staff; allied health school students, emergency response personnel; and the state’s Unified Command Group.

Almost 1.65 million Louisiana residents now are eligible, according to the governor’s office.

While pre-registration is preferred and encouraged, particularly for those 55-64 with underlying health conditions, pre-registration is NOT a requirement to get vaccinated.  The goal of our community vaccine site is to provide every eligible citizen with access to the vaccine as soon as possible.  To preregister, go to the LSU Health Shreveport website at www.lsuhs.edu.   

Individuals should bring ID and insurance information when they come to the site for vaccination.  

SHREVEPORT LOCATIONS

1. Louisiana State Fair Grounds - 3701 Hudson Drive
   Monday – Friday (February 22-26)
   8 am – 4 pm
   This location is for first and second doses of the vaccine.  Appointments within a two hour time block  will be emailed no later than Saturday for all those who have pre-registered.   Those receiving the second vaccine do NOT need an appointment and are encouraged to come between 8 am and noon when a separate tent/lanes will be available for those getting their second dose.   Re-registration is not required for second doses at any site.
2. Galilee Baptist Church  - 1500 Pierre Street
   Thursday, February 25
   9 am – 3pm
   This location is for first and second vaccines. No appointment necessary for those receiving their second vaccine.   
   Re-registration is not required for second doses at any site.
3. Chevyland/LSU Health Shreveport North Campus – 2627 Linwood Avenue
   Tuesday – Friday, February 23-26
   2pm- 5pm
   The above times are available ONLY for healthcare workers, teachers, school support staff and daycare workers.  All others who are eligible to receive vaccine should go to the Louisiana State Fair Grounds. 
   
   Saturday, February 27
   9am – 4pm
   The Saturday vaccination clinic is for teachers, school support staff and daycare workers ONLY.  

MINDEN LOCATION

Webster Parish Fair Grounds
800 Goodwill Drive
Tuesday, February 23
10 am –3pm  
This location is for first doses only.

Vaccine availability reflects the continued collaboration with CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier Health System and Willis-Knighton Health System. The goal of this community vaccine site is to provide the fastest possible access to the COVID-19 vaccine in concert with the important vaccine distribution occurring in pharmacies, clinics and other locations.    

In support of the National Strategy for the COVID-19 Response and Pandemic Preparedness, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is organizing a virtual National Forum on COVID-19 Vaccine that will bring together practitioners from national, state, tribal, local, and territorial levels who are engaged in vaccinating communities across the nation. The Forum will facilitate information exchange on the most effective strategies to:

• Build trust and confidence in COVID-19 vaccines
• Use data to drive vaccine implementation
• Provide practical information for optimizing and maximizing equitable vaccine access

We are proud to announce that on February 24, 2021, 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM EST Dr. G.E. Ghali, Chancellor for LSU Health Shreveport has been invited to be part of a panel of four people on one of the Town Hall Sessions on the topic of Building Bridges between Public Health and Healthcare Systems to Ensure Equitable Vaccination. Since the onslaught of the pandemic, LSU Health Shreveport has partnered with local, regional and state medical providers to ensure that they have access to the expertise of the researchers and physicians at our institution.

LSU Health Shreveport launched Louisiana’s first mass community vaccine clinic on January 11, 2021 and has since provided the COVID19 Vaccine to over 18,000 Louisiana residents, including communities with limited access to resources. The Community Vaccine Clinic is a partnership effort involving LSU Health Shreveport faculty, students and staff, Region 7 Office of Public Health, Louisiana National Guard, BPCC nursing students, CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier Health System and Willis-Knighton Health System.

National Forum on COVID-19 Vaccine is open to anyone and free to register at www.cdc.gov/covidvaccineforum.

Registration closes at midnight Tuesday, February 16, 2021.

The virtual Zoom event will take place on February 22-24, 2021. Attendees may register for one or all sessions, including the Town Hall session with Dr. G.E. Ghali on February 24 at 2:00pm EST.

February 24, 2021 / 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM EST | Town Hall Session 4
Building Bridges between Public Health and Healthcare Systems to Ensure Equitable Vaccination
Creating venues and opportunities for people to be vaccinated is central to ensuring that all Americans who wish to receive a vaccine can. Many people are accustomed to receiving vaccines when accessing routine healthcare services through their trusted providers and hospital systems. Given the central role of the public health system in rapidly expanding immunization delivery, vaccines may not currently be available during routine healthcare services. During this Town Hall, healthcare system leaders, healthcare providers, and government public health leaders will focus on fostering relationships among public health and healthcare and hospital systems to accelerate equitable vaccine implementation to Americans.

• Louito Edje, MD, MHPE, FAAFP | Associate Dean, Graduate Medical Education, University of Cincinnati Medical Center, Professor of Family Medicine
• G.E. Ghali, DDS, MD, FACS, FRCS(Ed) | Chancellor, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center – Shreveport
• Michael A. Kaufmann, MD, FACEP, FAEMS | State EMS Medical Director, Indiana Department of Homeland Security
• LaShawn McIver, MD, MPH | Director, Office of Minority Health, Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services
• Rhonda Medows, MD | President, Providence Population Health Management; Chief Executive Officer, Ayin Health Solutions
• Moderator: Dana Meaney Delman, MD | Medical Officer, National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
• Moderator: Susanna Visser, DrPH, MS | Associate Director for Policy & Extramural Program, Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

PRESS RELEASE – February 10, 2021
Governor John Bel Edwards visited Louisiana’s first mass community vaccine clinic this afternoon to see firsthand just how well the community effort involving LSU Health Shreveport faculty, students and staff, Region 7 Office of Public Health, Louisiana National Guard, BPCC nursing students, CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier Health System and Willis-Knighton Health System is working.

Governor Edwards praised all those involved in the community vaccine clinic and interacted with many of those in line to receive the vaccine.

LSU Health Shreveport is pleased to announce additional vaccine was received today allowing vaccinations again tomorrow at the Louisiana State Fair Grounds, Thursday, February 11, for those in Priority Group 1B Tier One, which includes individuals 65 and above. Also in this tier is COVID Emergency Response Personnel, Local Emergency Response and Law Enforcement.

Vaccinations for Priority Group 1B Tier One will also be available in Mansfield tomorrow at the former Wal-Mart Parking Lot at 1043 Washington.

While pre-registration is preferred, it is NOT required. The goal of this community vaccine site is for every eligible citizen to get the vaccine as soon as possible. To preregister, go to the LSU Health Shreveport website at www.lsuhs.edu.

Everyone should bring his or her ID and insurance information.

SHREVEPORT
Thursday, February 11
Louisiana State Fair Grounds 3701 Hudson Drive 8 am to-3:30 pm

MANSFIELD
Thursday, February 11
Former Wal-Mart Parking Lot 1043 Washington Street 10 am – 2pm

PRESS RELEASE – February 10, 2021
LSU Health Shreveport is encouraging all those in Priority Group 1B Tier One which includes individuals 65 and above as well as COVID Emergency Response Personnel, Local Emergency Response and Law Enforcement to get their COVID-19 vaccine today at the Louisiana State Fair Grounds while the vaccine supply is in hand. As seen around the US, vaccine availability is unpredictable so LSU Health Shreveport is encouraging all individuals who are eligible to receive the vaccine to do so today.  Vaccinations for Group 1B Tier One will also be available in Mansfield tomorrow. 

While pre-registration is preferred, it is NOT required.  The goal of this community vaccine site is for every eligible citizen to get the vaccine as soon as possible.  To preregister, go to the LSU Health Shreveport website at www.lsuhs.edu. 

Everyone should bring his or her ID and insurance information.

SHREVEPORT
Wednesday, February 10
Louisiana State Fair Grounds
3701 Hudson Drive
8 am to-3:30 pm  

Vaccine availability reflects the continued collaboration with CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier Health System and Willis-Knighton Health System. The goal of this community vaccine site is to provide the fastest possible access to the COVID-19 vaccine in concert with the important vaccine distribution occurring in pharmacies, clinics and other locations.  

MANSFIELD
Thursday, February 11
Former WalMart Parking Lot
1043 Washington Street
10 am – 2pm 

LSU Health Shreveport’s Center of Excellence for Emerging Viral Threats (CEEVT) is pleased to announce additional dates and locations for COVID-19 vaccinations.  As of Monday, those eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine has been expanded to include Louisiana residents age 65 and over.  To preregister, go to the LSU Health Shreveport website at www.lsuhs.edu.  Am emailed appointment timeframe for those ages 65-69 will be sent in the order in which pre-registration was received.

While pre-registration is not required, it is essential to minimizing wait times and in accurate vaccine allocation. If you are unable to pre-register but are age 65 and older, you are eligible to receive vaccine. Everyone should bring his or her ID and insurance information

SHREVEPORT
Monday, February 8 – Wednesday, February 10
First doses of the vaccine will be administered:
Louisiana State Fair Grounds
3701 Hudson Drive
8 am to-3:30 pm  

ARCADIA
Tuesday, February 9
Parking lot of the former Outlet Mall
700 Factory Outlet Drive
10 am to 2pm

NATCHITOCHES
Thursday, February 18
Ben Johnson Auditorium
400 Martin Luther King Jr Dr.
10 am to 2pm

MANSFIELD
Thursday, February 11
Former Wal-Mart Parking lot 1043 Washington
10 am to 2pm

MINDEN
Tuesday, February 16
Webster Parish Fairgrounds
800 Goodwill Drive
10 am to 2pm

Future offering of vaccines by the CEEVT reflect a continued collaboration with CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier Health System and Willis-Knighton Health System. The goal of this community healthcare collaboration is to provide the fastest possible access to the COVID-19 vaccine in concert with the important vaccine distribution occurring in pharmacies, clinics and other locations.  

About LSU Health Shreveport - LSU Health Shreveport (LSUHS) is one of two Health Sciences Centers of the Louisiana State University System and one of only 154 in the nation.  LSU Health Shreveport is home to the School of Medicine, School of Graduate Studies and School of Allied Health Professions, and a robust research enterprise, which has made a significant impact on the COVID-19 response in Louisiana, region and nation.                       

PRESS RELEASE – February 4, 2021
LSU Health Shreveport’s Center of Excellence for Emerging Viral Threats (CEEVT) is pleased to announce additional dates and locations for COVID-19 vaccinations. As of today, those eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine remains Louisiana residents age 70 and over. While pre-registration is requested, it is not required. To preregister, go to the LSU Health Shreveport website at www.lsuhs.edu. Anyone interested in receiving the vaccine should bring their ID and insurance information.

Those under age 70 may also pre-register to receive the vaccine. Appointment times will be emailed once an individual meets the Louisiana Department of Health criteria to receive the vaccine.

SHREVEPORT

• Friday, February 5 First and second doses of the vaccine will be available:
  Louisiana State Fair Ground 3701 Hudson Drive 8 am to-3:30 pm
• Monday, February 8 – Wednesday, February 10 First doses of the vaccine will be administered: Louisiana State Fair Grounds 3701 Hudson Drive 8 am to-3:30 pm.

ARCADIA

Tuesday, February 9 Parking lot of the former Outlet Mall 700 Factory Outlet Drive 10 am to 2pm

MANSFIELD

Thursday, February 11, Former Wal-Mart Parking lot 10 am to 2pm

Future offering of vaccines by the CEEVT reflect a continued collaboration with CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier Health System and Willis-Knighton Health System. The goal of this community healthcare collaboration is to provide the fastest possible access to the COVID-19 vaccine.

January 26 ‐ Willis‐Knighton Health System has joined LSU Health Shreveport (LSUHS) in a collaborative agreement to support the existing community COVID‐19 vaccinations program established by LSU Health at the Louisiana State Fair Grounds.

“On behalf of LSU Health Shreveport, I extend my deepest appreciation to Willis‐Knighton Health System for providing vaccine which allows us to continue our efforts to vaccinate those over 70 as quickly as possible. The recent rise in COVID‐19 cases in our community, coupled with the pending arrival of the more infectious COVID mutation, makes timely delivery of the vaccine more important than ever,” stated Dr. G. E. Ghali, Chancellor of LSU Health Shreveport.

Community Vaccine, powered by LSU Health, Willis‐Knighton and CHRISTUS Health Shreveport‐Bossier, in cooperation with the Louisiana Department of Health, follows state health department eligibility guidelines in administering vaccine. Willis‐Knighton will deliver its next shipment of 1,950 doses of vaccine to LSU Health Shreveport and will also provide staff support for vaccination efforts on Wednesday, Jan. 27, and Thursday, Jan. 28. Willis‐Knighton will continue to share vaccine and staff for the community program as vaccine supplies become available.

“This is an example of what can be accomplished when health organizations collaborate to address community needs,” said James K. Elrod, President and CEO of Willis‐Knighton Health System. “As a supporter of LSU Health Shreveport since its inception, we are proud to provide our resources to this effort. We urge patients of Willis‐Knighton to take advantage of this well‐organized community program to receive their vaccine.”

Community Vaccine offers a single point of registration for Louisiana residents to receive vaccine using the established logistics capabilities of LSU Health Shreveport and its medical school. The project is coordinated by infectious disease specialist John Vanchiere, MD, PhD, Chief of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, with support by LSUHS students. Critical support is provided by the Louisiana National Guard, and faculty and students of BPCC and SUSLA.

Anyone interested in receiving the vaccine should preregister by visiting the LSU Health Shreveport website: lsuhs.edu where additional details about the process are also found. The vaccines will be administered at four drive‐thru stations in the large parking lot parallel to I‐20 and adjacent to Fair Grounds Field, 3701 Hudson.

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About LSU Health Shreveport

LSU Health Shreveport (LSUHS) is one of two Health Sciences Centers of the Louisiana State University System and one of only 154 in the nation. LSU Health Shreveport is home to the School of Medicine, School of Graduate Studies and School of Allied Health Professions, and a robust research enterprise, which has made a significant impact on the COVID‐19 response in Louisiana, region and nation.

About Willis‐Knighton Health System

Willis-Knighton Health System is a not-for-profit community health system and the largest healthcare  provider in northwest Louisiana. It features three acute care hospitals in Shreveport, one in  Bossier City as well as a hospital in Shreveport offering physical and behavioral rehabilitation services.

January 25, 2021- LSU Health Shreveport and CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier Health System will be partnering again on vaccine delivery this Thursday, January 28 at Galilee Baptist Church. The vaccine event is targeted for citizens 70 and older who do not have the ability to register online.

“While our goal has always been to make the vaccine available to all citizens age 70 and over, pre-registration to receive the vaccine has and remains a key element to efficiently deliver the vaccine at the State Fairgrounds. We are blessed that CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier Health System shares our commitment to provide vaccine access to all citizens resulting in this alternate vaccination site at Galilee Baptist Church,” shared G. E. Ghali, DDS, MD, Chancellor, LSU Health Shreveport.

Our community has been hit hard by this virus. We see these vaccine clinics as a fulfillment of our mission to bring health and healing to our community,” said Steen Trawick, MD, CEO and CMO of CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier Health System. “Our goal with this additional vaccine clinic is to increase access and decrease fear surrounding the vaccine.”

The vaccine clinic will take place Thursday from 9-2 pm at Galilee Baptist Church. Individuals 70 and older should bring their ID and insurance card.

ABOUT LSU HEALTH SHREVEPORT

LSU Health Shreveport (LSUHS) is one of two Health Sciences Centers of the Louisiana State University System and one of only 154 in the nation. LSU Health Shreveport is home to the School of Medicine, School of Graduate Studies and School of Allied Health Professions, and a robust research enterprise, which has made a significant impact on the COVID-19 response in Louisiana, region and nation.

ABOUT CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier Health System

A faith-based, not-for-profit health system, CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier Health System is part of CHRISTUS Health, sponsored by the Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word. CHRISTUS is among the 10 largest Catholic health systems in the country and one of the 20 largest of all health systems in the nation. CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier Health System has provided health care in Northwest Louisiana for over 100 years. Our mission is to extend the healing ministry of Jesus Christ. For more information about CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier Health System, visit

January 22, 2021- LSU Health Shreveport will be providing COVID-19 vaccinations for those 70 and above on Monday, January 25 and Tuesday, January 26 at the Fairgrounds thanks to the provision of 975 daily doses of the Pfizer vaccine by CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier Health System.

CHRISTUS CEO and CMO, Steen Trawick, M.D., chose to collaborate with LSU Health Shreveport in an effort to expedite community vaccination by using an established and efficient mechanism of distribution. Prior to LSU Health Shreveport depleting their vaccine allocation, they were vaccinating over 1,000 individuals daily. CHRISTUS is providing a shipment of vaccines received this week, as well as additional staff to LSU Health Shreveport to assist in administering the vaccine.

“Our goal is to turn vaccine into vaccinations and get these doses administered as quickly as possible. Being able to partner with LSU Health Shreveport on such a monumental task is vital in vaccinating the most vulnerable in our community. We are stronger and more efficient working together in this battle against COVID-19,” said Dr. Trawick.

The only individuals who will be receiving the vaccine on Monday will those 70 years and above who already had appointments to receive vaccine before the LSU Health Shreveport vaccine allocation was depleted on January 14.  “It is imperative that we resume vaccine distribution to those 70 and over as these citizens are the most vulnerable to becoming critically ill if infected with COVID-19.  We are exceedingly grateful to Dr. Trawick and CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier Health System for their generosity and recognition that LSU Health Shreveport is well positioned to disburse the vaccine quickly and safely with our drive-thru process,” stated G. E. Ghali MD, Chancellor of LSU Health Shreveport.

The LSUHS drive-thru vaccine model serves as a compliment to other vaccine distribution channels such as pharmacies, clinics and hospitals. Dr. John Vanchiere, Chief of Pediatric Infectious Diseases and Director of Vaccine Distribution for LSUHS shared, “Louisiana needs every possible distribution channel to vaccinate all citizens as quickly as possible. Our ability to safely deliver a large number of vaccinations daily is directly attributed to our ongoing partnership with the Louisiana National Guard, the Region 7 Office of Public Health, BPCC and SUSLA.”

Citizens age 70 years and above who have not yet registered to receive the vaccine are encouraged to do so at www.lsuhs.edu. As soon as vaccine becomes available, an email notification with an appointment date and time will be sent to each registrant.

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ABOUT LSU HEALTH SHREVEPORT

LSU Health Shreveport (LSUHS) is one of two Health Sciences Centers of the Louisiana State University System and one of only 154 in the nation.  LSU Health Shreveport is home to the School of Medicine, School of Graduate Studies and School of Allied Health Professions, and a robust research enterprise, which has made a significant impact on the COVID-19 response in Louisiana, region and nation.

 

ABOUT CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier Health System

A faith-based, not-for-profit health system, CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier Health System is part of CHRISTUS Health, sponsored by the Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word. CHRISTUS is among the 10 largest Catholic health systems in the country and one of the 20 largest of all health systems in the nation. CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier Health System has provided health care in Northwest Louisiana for over 100 years. Our mission is to extend the healing ministry of Jesus Christ. For more information about CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier Health System, visit www.christushealth.org.

January 19, 2021- LSU Health Shreveport has not yet received additional vaccine and therefore does not have a timeframe when vaccinations will resume at the Fairgrounds.

Anyone who was scheduled to receive his or her first COVID-19 vaccine the week of January 18 will be rescheduled via email as soon as vaccine becomes available.  You may also monitor when vaccinations resume at www.lsuhs.edu. 

For those who have not yet registered to receive the vaccine, a registration link will be provided at www.lsuhs.edu once there is available vaccine. 

Individuals who have already received their first vaccine will be receiving their second vaccine.  This important second vaccine will be administered three weeks after the first vaccine at the same location where the original vaccination occurred. 

Healthcare workers should return to their designated location for the second vaccine.

PRESS RELEASE URGENT UPDATE 

January 14, 2021- LSU Health Shreveport has depleted their allocated vaccine supply effective today.  We are hopeful our vaccine allocation will increase in the near future.

Individuals who had an appointment to receive the vaccine tomorrow or next week will be notified via email of their rescheduled appointment.  

Individuals who have already received their first vaccine will be able to receive their second vaccination at the same location where they received their original vaccine.  Individuals will be notified by email of their appointment time to receive their second vaccine.  

LSU Health Shreveport will provide an update as quickly as possible on vaccine availability

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January 13, 2021 – Shreveport
In accordance with the directive from Louisiana Governor John Bel Edwards, LSU Health Shreveport is currently offering the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine ONLY TO LOUISIANA RESIDENTS AGE 70 AND ABOVE at this time. Individuals under 70 will be advised when the next tier of vaccine is authorized for distribution.  

While the CDC has announced that those 65 and under may receive the vaccine, as of today only those 70 and older are approved to receive in Louisiana.        

Anyone interested in getting the vaccine MUST pre-register at https://redcap.link/LSU-PUBLIC-VACCINE-SURVEY or at www.lsuhs.edu.  Pre-registration is required and essential to minimizing wait time.  After completing the pre-registration to receive the vaccine, individuals will receive email instructions with the date and time to arrive for their vaccine.  This ensures minimal wait times.  If an email detailing the vaccine appointment time is not received by 6pm the day after you register, an incorrect email has been provided.  Those individuals who do not receive an appointment timeframe within 24 hours of registering should go the Fairgrounds to receive the vaccine between the hours of 1pm and 3:30 pm.   

Those pre-registered will be directed to a designated area to receive the vaccine. 

If you do not have access to the internet or a computer, you may still receive vaccine as staff will secure needed information upon arrival. 

Everyone seeking to get the vaccine should:

1) Bring their ID and insurance information even though they are pre-registered.
2) Wear a mask. 
3) Wear clothing with easy access to upper arm where vaccine will be administered. 

Individuals remain in their vehicle to receive vaccine, allowing for safest interaction between those receiving and giving vaccine. 

Where: Fairground Field located at 3701 Hudson.  Go to the parking area of the Fairground that runs alongside Interstate 20.

When: Monday-Friday starting at 8 am.  Anyone arriving before 3:30 pm will receive the vaccine that day.