The Moderna and Pfizer COVID-19 vaccines have now earned approval from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the green light for distribution throughout the United States. To defeat the virus, Dr. Anthony Fauci and other experts suggest that at least 70% of the population must receive the vaccination.
To push us past that goal post, we are going to have to work together to convince our friends, family, and neighbors that the vaccine is safe and can help us end the pandemic and save the lives of millions of Americans.
Understand Vaccine Hesitancy
Polling shows that about half of Americans express some degree of hesitancy to receiving the COVID-19 vaccine, despite the FDA’s approval and extensive clinical testing to ensure its effectiveness.
The reasons for vaccine skepticism vary. Some are concerned with what they perceive are the “rushed” production and testing of the vaccine (health experts assure us that the vaccine was adequately vetted according to rigorous scientific standards) to outright skepticism about vaccines in general.
When discussing these issues with someone hesitant to take the COVID-19 vaccine, it’s essential to be as empathetic as possible. Listen to their concerns and then calmly address them in an organized and understanding way. That is how we will win the hearts and minds of the American public.
Why Should I get a COVID-19 Vaccine?
The first key to understanding the importance of getting the COVID-19 vaccine is to know the many benefits that vaccination offers, such as:
- You will be protected against future COVID infection.
- Vaccination to prevent COVID-19 is much safer than getting COVID-19 due to the severe health threats that infection poses.
- You can potentially protect your family, friends, and neighbors from infection when you get vaccinated.
- Once everyone is vaccinated, we can get back to everyday life, including sporting events, concerts, and all the fun activities that we have been unable to enjoy since the pandemic began.
Do your civic duty. Get the vaccine and encourage everyone you know to do the same. Together, we can overcome this virus and emerge more vital than ever. Now is the time to take action.