The Urgent Need for Americans to Get the COVID-19 Vaccine
The world has been in the midst of a pandemic since January 2020, and it has taken its toll on Americans. With the new coronavirus, or COVID-19, spreading prolifically, vaccine distribution is essential in order to bring people’s lives back to pre-pandemic normalcy. Vaccine rollout is happening in many countries around the world, but Americans—who make up a large percentage of the global population—are still mostly unvaccinated. This article will discuss why Americans need to get vaccinated and encourage them to take the necessary steps to protect themselves and their communities before it’s too late.
What are the Benefits of Getting Vaccinated?
Getting vaccinated is one of the best ways to protect yourself and those around you from the virus. Vaccines work by introducing the body to an inactive form of the virus, which prepares it to fight any future infection. There are many benefits associated with getting the vaccine, including:
• Reducing the number of new coronavirus cases: Getting vaccinated can slow the spread of the virus and reduce the burden on hospitals, health care workers, and essential services.
• Protecting essential workers: Vaccines can help keep essential workers safe so they can continue to provide vital services.
• Returning to pre-pandemic activities: COVID-19 vaccines are a key part of restoring a sense of normalcy and allowing people to get back to activities, like seeing relatives and other social events.
• Protecting those who are most vulnerable: Vaccines can help protect those who are most at risk from severe illness, including people aged 65 and older, people with existing medical conditions, and those from communities who are disproportionately affected by the virus.
• Lowering insurance premiums: Health insurance companies are offering incentives to those who get vaccinated by reducing premiums.
What Vaccines are Available in the U.S.?
So far, the United States has approved three different COVID-19 vaccines. Here’s an overview of each one, including who they are recommended for and the way they should be administered:
• The Moderna Vaccine: The Moderna vaccine is approved for people over the age of 18. It requires two doses, spaced 28 days apart, and consists of mRNA (messenger ribonucleic acid).
• The Pfizer Vaccine: The Pfizer vaccine is approved for people over the age of 16. It also requires two doses, spaced 21 days apart, and consists of an mRNA vaccine.
• The Johnson & Johnson Vaccine: The Johnson & Johnson vaccine is approved for people over the age of 18. It only requires one dose and consists of a vector-based vaccine.
How Can Americans Get Vaccinated?
The most reliable way to get vaccinated is to visit your health department or primary care physician. You can also find out about scheduled clinics for your state or county on their respective websites. There are currently many vaccine centers opened across the U.S., so be sure to contact your local health department or doctor’s office to learn more.
In addition to the traditional in-person options, there are also several online options for getting vaccinated. Many states have launched vaccine finders and appointment sign-ups online, so be sure to check your state’s department of health website to see what online options are available. You can also find information about vaccine availability in your area on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website.
What Should I Expect After Vaccination?
After getting the vaccine, it is common to feel a little soreness at the injection site, as well as a mild fever. However, these symptoms typically last a few days and can easily be managed with over-the-counter medication.
It is important to remember that the vaccine does not offer immediate protection against the virus and that it may take a few weeks for the antibodies to fully activate. During this period, you should continue to practice social distancing and wear a face mask in public. You should also follow the state and local guidelines for activities such as gathering with people from outside your immediate household, dining in restaurants, and attending public events.
Getting vaccinated is essential for community safety, and with three authorized vaccines now available in the U.S., it is more convenient than ever to get protected. Although the vaccine rollout is still in its early stages, the good news is that more and more people are getting vaccinated every day. Vaccines can help return us to a much more normal way of life, and Americans should continually look for ways to get vaccinated and help others to do the same.
