Vaccines for COVID-19 are quickly being distributed throughout the United States. Soon the vaccine will be available in pharmacies and doctors’ offices throughout the country. Over one million patients have already received the vaccine. However, due to misinformation and fear, many patients are hesitant to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. There are many who doubt the safeness of the vaccine. This is fake news and damaging to overall public safety. Harvard Medical School performed extensive research to put these minds at ease and ensure the public is well-informed.
Avoid Misinformation About the Covid-19 Vaccine
Often times, the fear surrounding the COVID-19 vaccine is derived from poor sources. It is important for the safety of the public, and our goal in creating herd immunity, for patients to only seek information from reputable sources. There are numerous sources that are spreading false information about the vaccine.
Patients must visit the Center for Disease Control’s website for resources about the vaccine and virus. They can also find reputable information from their health providers.
The COVID-19 Vaccine is Safe and Effective
Not only does the COVID-19 vaccine protect against contracting the virus, it also is shown to less the severity of infection in those who do fall ill.
The need for COVID-19 vaccine has resulted in the most intensive safety monitoring in history. The vaccine is undergoing constant review for its safety and effectiveness to protect the public.
Effectiveness of the vaccine has been reported at a 70%-90% rate of protection against COVID-19. This exceed the effectiveness of many other vaccines, including the vaccine for the flu.
There are two vaccines currently approved by the Center for Disease Control: Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine, and the Moderna vaccine, both of which have undergone intensive trails.
The Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine reported 95% rate of effectiveness in a trial involving 44,000 volunteers,
The Moderna vaccine was tested in a trial of over 30,000 participants and reported a 94% rate of effectiveness.
Side Effects of COVID-19 Vaccine
Experiencing side effects is a normal response to any vaccine, including the vaccines for COVID-19. These side effects are not dangerous and should not deter patients from getting vaccinated. You cannot contract an illness from a vaccine.
The most common side effects reported have been mild and include pain at the injection site, fatigue, chills, headaches, and nausea. These side effects typically subside within a few days.
For More Information
The vaccine is being rolled out in phases across the country. The first phases include those need the virus the most including those with compromised immune systems, the elderly, and healthcare workers. Visit your states websites and ask your physician for more information about the COVID-19 vaccine and to see if you qualify for your states current phase of vaccine distribution.