The Coronavirus vaccine is here. The combination of getting vaccinated and following CDC’s recommendations of social distancing and wearing masks will offer the best protection from COVID-19.
As you know the virus has caused serious illness and death for many. If you get COVID-19, you risk giving it to loved ones who may become very ill. Getting a vaccination is the primary preventive thing you can do.
IS THE VACCINE SAFE? The FDA granted Emergency Use Authorizations (EUA) for two COVID-19 vaccines. The vaccines are made using mRNA technology so you are not being injected with an infectious substance or live virus. The vaccine contains only “instructions” for your immune system to produce antibodies against the Corona virus. Moderna and Pfizer are the two manufacturers of currently administered vaccines. Both are equally effective.
SHOULD I GET THE VACCINE? Long-time RBCPC member, Mert Suzuki, MD recommends getting vaccinated, for personal safety and the welfare of family and friends, everyone with the opportunity should get vaccinated!
HOW DO I GET THE VACCINE? Following CDC and state guidelines for distribution of the vaccine, individuals are categorized by occupation and age into Phases and Tiers. Now is the time for people over age 65 to receive vaccinations! The first step is to check with your Primary Care Provider. Vaccine may be available in their office.
In January the County opened several Vaccination Super Stations where large numbers of people are vaccinated. More Super Stations will open soon. There are also community vaccination locations. Some members of our congregation were vaccinated at Scripps Clinic, Petco Park SuperStation, Rady Hospital, V.A., and supermarket pharmacies. Additional locations open each week. APPOINTMENTS ARE REQUIRED at all vaccination sites. Visit the *websites below to make your appointment. If you are 75 or older and do not have access to a computer or someone to assist you, you can call 2-1-1 for help making a vaccination appointment at a County of San Diego site.
Patience and Perseverance may be required. Hopefully less so in the near future!!
If you’ve completed the vaccination process, please put your experience to good use. Consider helping someone who may not have a computer or otherwise needs help in getting an appointment. Email me at marilyn@rbcpc.org so I can connect you with someone who needs assistance.
If you or someone you know needs help, email marilyn@rbcpc.org
*Vaccination websites sites and appointments:
https://www.sandiegocounty.gov/content/sdc/hhsa/programs/phs/community_epidemiology/dc/2019-nCoV/vaccines/COVID-19-VaxEvents.html#missionmyturn.ca.gov