CLEVELAND — Recent polls suggest about 20 percent of the population has no interest in getting the coronavirus vaccine, that includes some healthcare workers.
There is talk of possibly making it mandatory for some groups, including healthcare workers. It would be similar to how many hospitals require employees to get the flu shot, but we're a ways off from that right now. It's voluntary, but here's what you need to know.
How many need to get vaccinated to get the pandemic under control?
According to Dr. Robert Salata, infectious disease expert at University Hospitals, that number is at 75%.
By the end of the first week of the new year, Ohio should have more than half a million doses but finishing the phases will take time.
"The best estimates at when we get the general population vaccinated is probably now late May or June," Dr. Salata says.
Next week, local health departments that registered as providers are expected to start vaccinating congregate care residents and staff. Those are nursing homes, home health and hospice workers, EMS, free standing urgent cares and dental providers to name a few.
When you do get it, you'll likely have more than one to choose from.
What are the side effects to expect?
- Sore Arm
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Muscle Aches
- Chills
Devan Chapin was in the Pfizer clinical trial and already got both doses.
"I'm telling you, it's easy, mild discomfort, your arm is sore, trust the science," he says.
What about those who've already had COVID-19? Should they get the vaccine?
Right now the answer would be most likely. According to the CDC, We're still not sure how long antibodies last with natural immunity but we do know that re-infection is definitely possible.
Can you still get COVID after vaccination?
Five percent of study participants got the virus anyway but they didn't get severe disease. Those vaccinated can be pretty sure they won't get sick, but we don't know if they can still be contagious. We need more people vaccinated to answer that question.
Can you get one dose from one vaccine and the second from another?
Short answer NO. The Pfizer and Moderna vaccines differ in composition, storage and time between doses. So it's important to not only get your second dose, but get it from the same provider who gave you the first.
Will you have to pay for the vaccine to get it?
The CDC says Vaccine providers will be able to charge administration fees for giving the shot to someone. but your insurance should cover that fee or the Health Resources and Services provider fund can cover the cost for the uninsured.
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