In the USA every state has a different hierarchical plan as to how they are administering vaccines. I can only imagine how difficult it must have been to determine prioritization tiers beyond the obvious need to protect people in congregate care and the people who are exposed while providing healthcare in person. In my roll as an ambulatory care provider, I was placed into the first phase, but not the very first tier of the first phase. In my community, Vaccines were opened to my tier yesterday. Using the system in place for my community, I had no problem scheduling a time or getting through the process. As of 2:30 pm, December 31, 2020, I received the first dose.
The two vaccines available (Pfizer/Moderna) are for emergency use and are not yet FDA approved. Some people lack trust in the science and the speed with which the vaccine was produced. People will have negative reactions. This happens with every vaccine and every medication. I urge everyone to weigh the risks and uncertainties vs. potential benefits. Prior to my vaccine, I reviewed the science. I watched the public forums that were part of the emergency use authorization process. I spoke with people who know about vaccines and their safety. I suggest Primary care providers be consulted to see if she/he think you have any contraindications to taking the vaccine.
Vaccines work best when the majority of people get them. A vaccine is not only used to protect you as an individual, it is there to protect anyone to whom you are exposed. This virus can be present without causing symptoms, and can inadvertently be passed on to someone who in turn, may develop life threatening complications.
In case anyone wonders, I know about a dozen people who have received the first dose of the vaccine. We did not get to choose the pharmaceutical company that produced the vaccines we received. There are slight differences in the science. We took what was available, and will need to stick with the same for the second booster shot. Most had some mild muscle soreness the next day, and a few also had a headache. Those symptoms resolved quickly. I have some muscle stiffness today.
Getting a COVID 19 vaccine has been the best way to end 2020. I feel hopeful. I look forward to getting the second dose in three weeks.
Cheers!
Happy New Year!
