If you’ve been anticipating the release of a successful COVID-19 vaccine, you’re probably enthusiastic about recent developments. The latest information claims that up to 40 million doses should be available by the end of 2020. This should be enough to vaccinate 20 million people. But, don’t too excited. There will be those who take first priority for the vaccine based on risk factors and health conditions. This is understandable. There are many healthy adults without underlying conditions who aren’t in any hurry to get the vaccine. The COVID-19 vaccine may be beneficial for those in the highest risk categories. But those in other groups who are waiting for the COVID-19 vaccine may have to wait significantly longer for access. The logistics of getting this vaccine to all the people who want it are complicated.
The latest news
Operation Warp Speed was put into place in May. President Trump’s administration fought for this operation to help speed up vaccine research and production. It seems the operation was more successful than expected. There are currently 2 companies, Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech, who have applied for emergency use authorization. This gives them the authority to produce COVID-19 vaccines that are technically not yet “approved.” This type of authorization is generally only used in emergency situations, like pandemics. But the “not approved” status makes many people wary of the potential risks associated with a rushed vaccine. It’s also a good indication of why many otherwise healthy Americans are reluctant to get in line for the COVID-10 vaccine.
COVID-19 vaccine basics
There will be a priority list when it comes to access to the COVID-19 vaccine. Health care workers and residents of long-term care facilities will have first access to COVID-19 vaccines. The goal is to provide vaccines to those most at risk before vaccinating the general population. The CDC is currently working with public health officials to increase the availability of the vaccine once it’s ready. The cost for the vaccine itself should be free, but agencies may charge a fee for administration. Anyone who wants the vaccine should understand that it will likely require 2 doses to be effective. If everything goes as planned, the first COVID-19 vaccines may be distributed in late December. Americans who aren’t in high-risk groups may have to wait months for access to the vaccine.
The COVID-19 vaccine could save a lot of lives, especially when it comes to people in certain risk categories. But, there are people who are reluctant to stand in line for a vaccine that was rushed into production. Operation Warp Speed was put into place this past May to increase funds for virus research and development. Currently, there are 2 companies who have had success in developing a vaccine for COVID-19. Still, there is a long way to go simply due to the logistics of getting this new vaccine to the public. Anyone not in a high-risk category is likely to be waiting for the COVID-19 vaccine.
