By PPHD
We understand that some people may be nervous about the COVID vaccines – this is totally reasonable. Fortunately, researchers have been working on vaccines for the coronavirus family for years, so they did not have to start from scratch.
As researchers have been working intensely to develop and test the vaccine, they have been transparent in sharing data, holding live hearings, and pausing trials when it’s been important to slow down. All of this has given us trust and confidence in vaccination – a critical tool in our toolbox in slowing the spread of COVID and helping our communities move forward.
We have sacrificed so much this year to keep our loved ones and community safe. While we know getting vaccinated isn’t always comfortable, you can play a big role to support your community by keeping yourself and your family up-to-date on vaccinations. By staying updated on immunizations, we can make sure our sacrifice and efforts to fight COVID keep everyone safe.
Sixty percent of Americans indicate they intend to get vaccinated. It is estimated half of all Americans need to be vaccinated before seeing an impact and 75% to 85% of the population needs to be vaccinated to have blanket herd immunity. Herd immunity is achieved by protecting people from a virus, not exposing them to it.
Even with the vaccine nearing the horizon, please do not let your guard down on the important prevention strategies. Cover your mouth and nose with a mask when around others, stay at least 6 feet away from others, avoid crowds, and wash your hands often.
Unified Command confirms 215 more cases of COVID in the Panhandle since last reporting on Monday, December 14. Recoveries are available on the Panhandle dashboard at www.pphd.org. The investigations are underway, all close contacts will be quarantined.
