BUFFALO, N.Y. — The last two holiday seasons have been anything but normal for people as the world fought back against COVID-19.

As vaccines became available, it was all hands on deck as health care workers tried to get shots in the arms of as many people seeking vaccinations as possible. In New York state, more than 15.5 million people are fully vaccinated, which makes up 79.59% of the state’s population.

That number could not have been achieved without the help of local pharmacies taking on the role of vaccine education and administration.

Bradley Arthur, a pharmacist managing partner of Black Rock Pharmacy, said in 2021 administered 1,985 doses of the vaccine. The majority of those were Moderna. In 2022, the pharmacy administered only 180 vaccines.

He said during this time he strived to build personal connections with customers.

“I think it’s the one thing that really differentiates and defines independent community pharmacy from our competitors,” said Arthur. “All of us engage our health care practitioners based on a certain degree of trust. Pharmacy is no different. If you walk into your pharmacy and you don’t trust that person, it has implications on your health care.”

He said his pharmacy utilized a private booth to address questions and concerns as well as administer the vaccine. He said is still making appointments for people who are getting their first dose. 

While COVID-related pharmacy needs have slowed down, he said the staff's workload remains fairly high as they navigate the surge in respiratory illnesses.

In the last seven days, Johns Hopkins University and Medicine Coronavirus Resource Center report 196 new COVID deaths.