Covid-19 vaccine
The World health Organization declared Covid-19 a global pandemic on March 11,2020. We all have seen the numbers of how many people have been infected and the death tolls. The CDC has guided us with recommendations on how to limit the spread and the states have mandated restrictions to further help reduce number of infections. Businesses and restaurants have closed. Places of worship have closed. Schools have gone remote. We have all felt the physical and mental strain that this pandemic has caused. Even our faith has been tested for many people.
The first of the covid-19 newly authorized vaccines developed from Pfizer /BioNTech in the US were distributed Monday, December 14th. A total of 55 sites nationwide received shipments and Phase 1a was implemented for the healthcare workers and LTC facility employees and residents. By December 29th an initial rollout of 2.9 million doses of the vaccine will have been delivered nationwide. And the FDA is said to be authorizing emergency use of the vaccine from Moderna which is also highly protective with an efficacy rate of 94.1%.
There is now hope and the end of this pandemic is becoming more of a reality. The goal is for everyone is to be able to get a Covid-19 vaccination as soon as large quantities are available. We can then resume our lives as we once remembered.
Many people have expressed concerns about the vaccine. It’s important to know the facts and some science behind it.
About the vaccine: (information from Center for Disease Control)
· While the vaccine has been developed quickly, routine processes and procedures have remained in place as with all other vaccines to assure safety and efficacy.
· COVID-19 vaccine will not give you COVID-19. None of the current vaccines uses the live virus and the goal of the vaccine is to teach the body’s immune system to recognize and fight the virus.
· The active ingredient in the vaccine is messenger RNA and is designed to be very specific and only trigger an immune response to the virus’ “spike protein”.
· The M-RNA does not alter one’s own DNA.
· MRNA research has been in progress for several decades and has been tested for use for other infectious agents such as influenza and Ebola, certain types of cancers such as melanoma and certain diseases such as cystic fibrosis.
· Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine is about 95% effective
Please refer to the link below for specific guidelines and information: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/pdfs/321466-A_FS_What_Expect_COVID-19_Vax_Final_12.13.20.pdf
At this point we will need to continue wearing masks, social- distancing and frequent hand washing. The benefits of getting vaccinated and following CDC’s guidelines to protect yourself and others will offer the best protection from covid-19.
As we enter into the most anticipated 2021, we have to stay healthy with good nutrition, adequate exercise and sleep. It is important to stay mentally healthy as well by practicing effective ways to reduce our stress and anxiety level. And we must stay spiritually grounded through prayer, meditation and relaxation techniques.
Much peace, health and happiness in 2021.
Lori Arena RN, BSN
Parish Nurse