COVID-19 Vaccine: Facts and Information You Need To Know

It’s been a full year since the world went into lockdown due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The authorization and rollout of highly effective COVID-19 vaccines is a huge step in slowing the spread of the virus. But it will take time for the vaccines to become available to everyone. The vaccine is our most powerful tool to stop the spread of the virus and to protect yourself and your loved ones. Every vaccination is important, and so is every question you may have about the vaccines—and we understand you may have a few.

Safety

Safety is an important concern when it comes to the COVID-19 vaccine. Many of the most common sources of vaccine hesitancy center on safety. Many are afraid the testing process was rushed, and the ingredients are harmful. However, the COVID-19 vaccines have gone through the same rigorous safety assessment as all other vaccines before authorization. Thus, the ingredients in all of the COVID-19 vaccines, inclusive of the mRNA vaccines, are well understood by the scientific community to be safe. They cannot cause COVID-19. The side effects of getting the vaccine are minimal, and include headache, sore muscles, fatigue or mild fever. In fact, side effects could be a sign that the vaccine is working.

Effectiveness

Many people are uncertain about the vaccine’s effectiveness. Based on clinical trial data, the risk of getting serious illness from COVID-19 is significantly less in people who get the vaccine compared with those who don’t. The vaccines have been tested across diverse demographics varying in sex, race and ethnicity groups, including people with various underlying medical conditions. It is important to note that it is still unknown whether the vaccines completely prevent you from harboring and spreading the virus. Therefore, it is important to continue mask-wearing, social distancing and handwashing.

Necessity

Many individuals don’t understand the need to get the vaccine. You may have even asked yourself “if everyone else is getting the vaccine, why do I need to?” It’s estimated that up to 85% of adults need the vaccine to stop the COVID-19 virus from spreading. Consider getting the vaccine for those who can’t. Many people have medical conditions that may prevent them from getting the vaccine. In addition, natural immunity may not last when it comes to COVID-19. We don’t know how long those who have recovered from the virus are immune to the virus, so it’s recommended to get the vaccine to make sure you’re protected.

Accessibility

Accessibility for the vaccine is a complicated situation. In the United States specifically, each state’s government oversees distribution logistics and there is no overarching plan in place for the entire country. Distribution also varies country-by-country. Therefore, the best way to stay informed on accessibility is to consult your local government website to see when you are eligible for the vaccine.

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