HOW TO TALK TO FRIENDS, FAMILY, OR CO-WORKERS WHO ARE HESITANT TO GET THE VACCINE

Despite the recent success with vaccinations, we know there are still many people who are reluctant to take the shot. A recent poll found 32 percent of the US population may not get the vaccine. And we know to fully protect everyone we need to reach at least 75 to 85 percent of us. We’ve all heard some of the reasons why people are hesitant—the technology is too new, steps must have been skipped, we don’t know the side effects, and others. There are some ways to help people overcome their hesitancy. Encourage them to talk to their doctor instead of just using the Internet, which can cause confusion; Remind them that qualified people study the vaccine, and the medical professionals stand by it. The fact that so many doctors, nurses, and other health professionals are lining up for the vaccine is a powerful statement. You can also remind them that getting ill from COVID-19 is more serious than most vaccine reactions; Most of us who got the shot had a sore arm or other mild symptoms that quickly went away. Be sure to emphasize that COVID-19 is still a serious disease and point out they will be helping others and they will be helping their community to get back to normal quicker. Most of us want to keep each other safe and get back to seeing friends and family. Getting vaccinated will help us get there.

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THREE MILLION VACCINATIONS PER DAY

States across the country are now vaccinating over three million people per day and on Saturday, April 3, the country reported over four million doses in a single day. In mid-January, the average was around 800,000 doses daily. This is great news and reflects increased supply and improved access to the vaccines. The goal is to reach “herd” immunity, where enough of the population has been either exposed to the virus or vaccinated.

Experts say between 75 to 85 percent of the population needs to be vaccinated or have been exposed. If the current pace of vaccinations holds, we could reach this goal by late Spring. With improved supplies and access, we need to reach out to friends and family who have yet to schedule a vaccination or may need assistance.

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“MEMBER VOICES"

The only way to eradicate a deadly disease is by immunization. It would be in our best interest as healthcare workers to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. Let’s be safe out there.

Sharon A. Maxon, HHA,
Samaritan Summit Village,
Watertown, NY

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Question of the week

Q: How long does protection from a COVID-19 vaccine last?

A: We don’t know how long protection lasts for those who are vaccinated. What we do know is that COVID-19 has caused very serious illness and death for a lot of people. If you get COVID-19, you also risk giving it to loved ones who may get very sick. Getting a COVID-19 vaccine is a safer choice. Experts are working to learn more about both natural immunity and vaccine-induced immunity. The CDC is keeping the public informed as new evidence becomes available.

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COVID-19 INFO AND FAQS Click here for the most up-to-date questions and information, compiled by the 1199 National Benefit Fund, about COVID-19. This is the first place to go with your questions about COVID-19 and the vaccines and how to get them. Read more If you have other questions about COVID-19 or the vaccines, Email us at: VaccineQuestions@1199.org