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Stop the Spread By Getting Vaccinated Today
Just as the best way to prevent the flu is by receiving a flu shot, the best way for you to prevent yourself from contracting COVID-19. Though these conditions are similar in their symptoms, the result of contracting COVID-19 has been known to be more serious for many Americans.
In honor of World Immunization Week, here’s why it’s vital to receive the COVID-19 vaccine when it becomes available for you.
The Risks of COVID-19
According to John Hopkins, COVID-19 has killed more people in the U.S. than influenza has in the last five years. Also, COVID-19 has a higher severe disease and mortality rate than influenza in all age groups, except perhaps children under the age of 12. COVID-19 survivors report many more long-term effects of the infection than influenza survivors — and we don’t know the full scope of these effects yet.
Just like the flu vaccine, the COVID-19 vaccine is not 100% effective, but it drastically reduces your chances of being infected and/or having serious symptoms if you do become sick. In addition to lowering your risks, receiving your COVID-19 vaccine can help lower the risks of your family members, loved ones, and community — helping to significantly stop the spread.
Looking Ahead
As we navigate the pandemic, it’s unclear what the future holds as far as travel across the U.S. and internationally. It is likely that, similarly to other serious infections, there could be some restriction on travel for those not fully vaccinated.
Who Can Get the Vaccine?
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted emergency use authorization Data collected show that the known and potential harms of becoming infected with the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID 19) outweigh the potential safety risks of the vaccines.
According to the CDC, anyone who has a severe allergy (e.g., anaphylaxis) to any of the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine ingredients should not receive this vaccine. The CDC says people with allergies to certain foods, insects, latex, and other common allergens can safely receive the COVID-19 vaccine.
Texas Guidelines
The Texas Department of State Health Services continues to expand the vaccine allocation for residents across the state. Both the Moderna and Pfizer vaccines (two-dose vaccines) are available across Texas, and it’s essential to stay up to date to learn when you’re able to be vaccinated. Click here for the latest from Texas Health and Human Services.
COVID-19 Vaccines Available at Urgentology Care
As we navigate through the Covid-19 crisis, our practice is committed to bringing the most up-to-date resources to our community, including the most advanced FDA-approved testing available. The Moderna vaccine is currently available at Urgentology Care.
To read more about our COVID-19 testing practices or to contact our team, click here.