The need for a COVID-19 vaccine was urgent, so many resources were used to develop it quickly. This doesn’t make the studies any less safe or rigorous. Development and research took place while still adhering to strict safety and clinical standards. In most cases, vaccines go through about 5-10 years of extensive trials before they can be introduced to the country. Many people are concerned with the long term effects of the vaccine even though expert doctors and scientists are required to follow strict international standards before deciding whether or not to approve a vaccine. 

The COVID-19 vaccine affects everyone differently, some people may not be affected by it while others experience tiredness, headaches, muscle pain, and fevers.  “I recommend getting vaccinated if you aren’t already. The shot wasn’t nearly as painful as other shots and the effects are only temporary. The vaccine was also free so that was nice,” said high school student, Simon Hickey. Vaccination will protect most people from getting sick, however there is still a possibility that a small percentage of people fully vaccinated will still develop COVID-19 illness, but symptoms will likely be less severe. The overall risk of death and hospitalization among fully vaccinated people will be much lower, which is the main reason the Centers for Disease recommends you get the vaccine as soon as it’s available to you. 

A National Public Radio poll found that one in four Americans say they would refuse a coronavirus vaccine if offered. Another 5% of people said they haven’t decided whether or not they want the shot. Researchers are starting to worry that this reticence could be enough to prevent the nation from reaching herd immunity. Vaccine hesitancy is a big problem for the nation. It’s hard to tell how many people won’t get vaccinated. Ali Mokdad tracks coronavirus trends at the Institute for Health Metrics and he believes that there will be more vaccines than people willing to take the vaccine. 

Overall, the vaccine will help reduce spread of the virus that causes COVID-19. People complain about wearing masks, but the sooner people get vaccinated the sooner we won’t have to wear masks. This vaccine will work with the immune system and be ready to fight the virus if someone is exposed.