By Divya Gottiparthy
The COVID-19 vaccine was first introduced in early December 2020. There has been tremendous doubt from the public, especially in regards to the efficacy of the vaccine, and whether it would cause severe side effects due to its short time of research and exposure. Many communities reflect over the vaccine’s overall effectiveness, the controversies surrounding it and its impact on the pandemic.
“The increased interest in vaccines can be attributed in part to clearer, concerted messaging about boosters coming from public health agencies...”
Currently, many researchers and medical professionals can confirm the vaccine's effectiveness through statistics. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), both mRNA based COVID vaccinations (Moderna and Pfizer) reduce the risk of the virus and its potentially severe symptoms by 90 percent or more amongst people who are fully vaccinated. In addition to providing protection against the pandemic, there is increasing evidence that coronavirus vaccines also provide protection against asymptomatic COVID-19 infections. However, many people also say that it is much more than just a scientific affirmation of safety, but also somewhat of a psychological alleviation for many people.
“In comparison to last year, I feel so much safer walking around school, and in public areas. I think after getting the vaccine, I wasn’t as concerned about contracting the virus,” said senior Hanna Thomas.
With the safety net that the vaccine provides, many feel more comfortable attending school and large events. Because of this, some argue that many people aren’t taking the pandemic seriously.
“The introduction of the vaccine made people more lenient. Although the vaccine has relieved a lot of the fear many people had about attending social gatherings, I feel like a lot of people aren’t taking the pandemic as seriously as they should,” said senior Annabelle Chen.
Source by Anna Detke
Staff member Coach Dolan proudly points at his vaccination card which enables him to travel into many indoor public spaces.
COVID-19 vaccine boosters and additional vaccine doses are now authorized by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and recommended by the CDC for certain people. It is an additional dose for protection on top of the already existing vaccines. The CDC strengthens its recommendation on booster doses for individuals who are 18 years and older. Everyone ages 18 and older are recommended to get a booster shot six months after getting their second shot of either Pfizer or Moderna. The recent outbreak of the Omicron variant further highlights the importance of the vaccination, boosters and efforts needed for protection or prevention against the COVID-19. The increased interest in vaccines can be attributed in part to clearer, concerted messaging about boosters coming from public health agencies.
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