Flu, polio, tetanus, mumps, Hepatitis B, chickenpox, measles, pneumococcal, whooping cough, diphtheria…do these sound familiar? These are some of the 16 vaccines that are recommended from birth to age 18. Will the Coronavirus vaccination be next on the list?

   It is interesting how vaccines work their magic. A vaccine contains the same germ that caused the disease but has been weakened to the point where it should not make anyone sick. It stimulates the immune system and people begin to form immunity to the disease without contracting it. However, vaccines are controversial and many people have concerns that possible adverse effects could outweigh the benefits. 

   It’s all over the news. Scientists have been working tirelessly to research vaccines for the Coronavirus. The world is desperate to find a way to beat the invisible enemy who invaded us last January. Their work has paid off. Scientists have concocted a safe vaccine, in fact more than one. Now, it’s time to pump it into our neediest citizens. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention, or CDC, is suggesting that people need to be warned about possible side effects of the vaccine. These side effects mimic the symptoms of COVID-19 including muscle pain, chills, and headaches. When people find this out, will they still want the vaccine?

   Many people would still choose to be first in line to get the vaccine. For example, people suffering from cancer like Kathleen Smith’s husband will take extra precaution.   Smith said” Just to stay safe, my family and I will be getting the COVID vaccine whenever it is available to us.” Also, Stephan Langdon, a science teacher at Sycamore High School whose wife is expecting a child stated, “My recommendation for other people would be to talk to your doctor about your own situation and make the decision from there. Making a medical decision based on the news or social media is a risky and potentially harmful path to go down.” In addition, hospital staff and other essential workers will likely do whatever it takes to avoid the consequences of COVID and get the vaccine. Think about the elderly people who have been locked away in their homes away from family and friends. There are many groups of people who wouldn’t think twice about receiving the vaccine.   Make sure you and your loved ones protect yourself and steer clear from contracting COVID-19. Also, make sure you do research if you would like to get the COVID-19 vaccine and talk to your doctor if you think that is an option for you.