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In just two weeks, I’ll be receiving my second dose of the Pfizer COVID vaccine. Initially, I was uncertain about getting vaccinated. However, after discussing with various individuals, I realized that this was a crucial step in the process—similar to the experiences many had with the flu shot. So, I decided to embrace the moment, stopped fixating on the images of healthcare workers administering shots on TV, and awaited my turn. Now, I view it as akin to enjoying a refreshing drink; once you’ve had the first, why not go for the second? If you’re hesitating about your next shot, don’t be. Go for it!
We all chuckled (or at least I hope we did) at the bizarre suggestion from former President Donald Trump about drinking bleach to fend off COVID-19. Did anyone actually try it? (Well, apparently a couple did, but that’s a different story.) Getting that second dose of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine brings us closer to achieving herd immunity.
What is Herd Immunity?
You might wonder, what is herd immunity? Dr. Alex Reid, director of a health research institute, defines it as the threshold where enough people are either vaccinated or infected that the virus struggles to spread in the community. Dr. Emma Collins also emphasized in a recent interview, “Forget the classic definition; if we vaccinate enough individuals, the infection rates will decline.”
The Takeaway
The takeaway? Get both doses. The more individuals who are vaccinated, the more we can curb the virus’s spread. Yes, the side effects from the second shot can be uncomfortable—think low-grade fever or some digestive issues—but they are far more manageable than dealing with COVID itself. The discomfort lasts a short while, but the benefits of vaccination are long-lasting. So, don’t become one of the 5 million who got the first dose but skipped the second.
Why Are People Opting Out?
Why are so many people opting out of their second dose? According to experts, there are a few reasons. Some fear side effects, especially if they experienced adverse reactions after the first shot. Others may forget to schedule their second appointment within the designated timeframe. Vaccine availability can also be an issue; a pharmacy might have administered Pfizer for the first dose but only has Moderna for the second. College students might leave campus between appointments, or some may feel overconfident, assuming that one dose is sufficient. Unfortunately, it is not.
Dr. Mia Johnson, an infectious disease specialist, warned that if too many individuals forgo their second shot, our progress against COVID could “absolutely regress.” She cautioned that skipping the second dose compromises your immunity, potentially putting you at risk for COVID just months after your first vaccine. Moreover, it reduces your defense against circulating variants.
Becoming Fully Vaccinated
To be considered “fully vaccinated,” you need both doses. Having both shots strengthens your immune system, enhancing your ability to fight off COVID if you were to contract it.
Think of vaccination like this: the first dose primes your immune system, while the second dose builds its strength. Consider it like preparing a wall for paint—the primer (first dose) sets the stage for the real paint (second dose) to adhere properly. If you’ve already taken the first step, keep the momentum and get that second shot. For those who prefer a one-shot option, the Johnson & Johnson vaccine is back and available. However, if you’ve chosen Pfizer or Moderna, it’s essential to complete the process. The CDC reports that the Moderna vaccine is 94.1% effective, while the Pfizer vaccine boasts a 95% efficacy after both doses. If you miss the 21 or 28-day window, you can still wait up to 42 days between doses and still achieve immunity benefits.
Don’t let the opportunity slip away; continue the journey and get your second dose. We’re counting on you!