PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — The announcement that Philadelphia has seen its first case of the omicron variant came just a few hours after First Lady Dr. Jill Biden came to the city to convince parents to get children 5 years old and older vaccinated for COVID-19, a message that now has new urgency.
Dr. Biden leaned into many of her roles in her visit to Children's Hospital of Philadelphia: First lady, teacher, Delaware Valley native, and mom.
Related
Iyanuolwa Adesina, 7, recognized the First Lady as soon as she walked in and ran up to hug her. Adesina showed no signs of discomfort, though she just just received her first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.
"Hello, how are you?" Dr. Biden said as Adesina embraced her.
Dr. Biden said she was thrilled to be in Philadelphia, reminiscing about Christmases past.
"I used to take the train into Reading Terminal," she said.
"I remember going to Wanamakers and how magical that was. Being here at this time brings that all back to me, so I just love being home."
But the First Lady had a serious purpose.
"Nothing is more important than our children’s health, and it’s up to us to keep them safe and with this vaccine we can," she said, giving the analogy of how parents protect their child against other dangers.
"There’s a moment that we all go through when you look at that new baby, and you feel absolute terror because you know this fragile little life is depending on you," Dr. Biden added.
She compared the COVID-19 vaccine to safety gates or outlet covers, a basic precaution for homes with babies.
Related
"It’s not just another way to protect your kids against COVID-19. It’s the best way."
Dr. Biden was joined by the City of Philadelphia's congressional delegation and Gov. Tom Wolf.
"I think we’re doing pretty well," said Wolf.
"I’m really heartened by the progress we’re making with pediatric vaccines, and places like CHOP are really making a difference."
The state estimates about 15% of 5-to-11-year-olds have received their first shot. In Philadelphia, vaccination levels for children those ages are just under 10%.
CHOP has 10 vaccine hubs around the region. Appointments can be made by clicking here.