Race to distribute COVID-19 vaccine continues

Michigan has a reported 620,685 confirmed cases of coronavirus with 15,854 confirmed deaths. (Michigan.gov)

Getting the vaccine will be free and administered regardless of the patient’s ability to pay. The vaccine comes in two doses. If you receive the Pfizer vaccine you will return 21 days after your first dose. If you receive the Moderna vaccine, you must return 28 days after the first. Your second dose must be from the same manufacturer as your first. (michigan.gov) 

There have been new coronavirus variants spreading rapidly across the United Kingdom and southern states of the United States. This can be cause for concern even though vaccinations are being administered. 

Helix President Dr. James Lu said in an interview on CNN that it’s unclear whether the pace of vaccination in the United States will prevent the strain from spreading to places it hasn’t been yet. 

“We’re in a race between the vaccine and the new strains,” Lu said. (CNN.com)

Scientists do not yet know whether vaccinated people can spread the virus, so it’s best to stay masked and social distance even after receiving the vaccine. Uma Karmarkar, a neuroeconomist at the University of California, San Diego, recommends that people think about “how we are moving forward” instead of “getting back to normal.” (New York Times)

As of Feb. 5, more than 1,127,787 vaccinations had been administered in Michigan. Currently, Michigan is in phase 1B of vaccinations; this includes senior citizens ages 65 years or older and essential workers including health care workers, police officers, firefighters, and teachers. Still, thousands of people are on waiting lists to get vaccinated. (mlive.com)

Remember to wear a mask and to do your part in slowing the spread. To find more information on the vaccine and how to receive it, visit the Monroe County Health Department website.