Answered by SecondMedic Expert
General Physician · General Physician
The decision of whether to get a COVID-19 vaccination ultimately comes down to personal preference, but the potential benefits should be carefully considered. Vaccines can help protect populations from dangerous and potentially life-threatening diseases by providing immunity against certain viruses and bacteria. As of April 2021, three vaccines have been approved for emergency use in the United States: Pfizer/BioNTech, Moderna, and Johnson & Johnson’s Janssen vaccine.
Getting vaccinated can greatly reduce the risk of getting infected with COVID-19 or helping spread it to others. Studies have shown that even after one dose of either the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine, individuals are 94% less likely to get sick than those who aren't immunized; after two doses this number rises to 95%. Those who got both doses were also 90% less likely to experience severe illness as opposed to not being Immunized at all. An additional benefit is that people who are fully vaccinated may now "gather together indoors with other fully vaccinated people without wearing masks." (CDC)
COVID-19 vaccinations may also provide long-term protection against new variants of SARS-CoV2 which could otherwise prove resistant or difficult for our current treatments and prevention measures such as social distancing protocols. Furthermore studies continue on how long this immunity will last making them an important tool in reducing levels of infection throughout population groups - creating herd immunity where possible which can further help protect more vulnerable members in our community including those more susceptible due age related complications or immune issues relating pre existing conditions..
Overall while there is no guarantee you won't contract Covid 19 even if you've been vaccinated – studies show that you'll be far less likely than someone who hasn't been immunised – along with helping reduce infection rates across a population Community Immunity helps protects those most vulnerable within out health care system too so make sure you consider your options carefully before deciding on whether it is right for you!
