The buzz surrounding the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines is intense, akin to the latest royal news. The Pfizer vaccine is on the move! Healthcare workers in New York are receiving their first doses! The Moderna vaccine requires two doses! Together, these companies aim to produce around 60 million doses by the end of January!
While there’s optimism about these vaccines as a solution to COVID-19, two important factors are often overlooked: As reported by The Washington Post, only about half of Americans are willing to get vaccinated. Moreover, every vaccine comes with potential side effects, which can deter individuals from getting the shot. For instance, flu vaccines are known to cause side effects such as soreness at the injection site, fatigue, and low-grade fever. I personally experienced shoulder pain resembling a bump against a doorway after my flu shot. Similarly, local resident Jamie Lee noted that after receiving what he believes was a Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine (not a placebo), his arm felt as if it had been struck repeatedly.
The Reality of Side Effects: Similar to the Flu
Like myself, Jamie wasn’t overly concerned about these side effects, as they are expected. However, many people opt out of the flu vaccine due to its relatively minor side effects. The common misconception that “I got the flu from the flu vaccine” arises when individuals experience symptoms from the vaccine—such as fever or fatigue—and confuse them with actual flu symptoms.
This fear of mild side effects is a significant factor in vaccine hesitancy. According to US News and World Report, 36% of those who skip the flu shot cite side effects as a major concern, while 21% consider them a minor reason. This means that 57% of individuals who forgo the flu vaccine—responsible for 24,000 to 62,000 deaths last flu season, as noted by Health.com—are influenced by side effect fears.
The COVID Vaccine Might Present Greater Challenges
The side effects associated with COVID-19 vaccines are anticipated to be more intense than those of flu shots. These reactions indicate that the vaccine is eliciting a response, as highlighted by The Washington Post. Notably, the second dose of both the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines tends to cause more pronounced side effects.
According to a comprehensive analysis of the Pfizer vaccine, participants reported various “unpleasant but tolerable side effects” such as fatigue, joint pain, and chills. Kelly Moore from the Immunization Action Coalition mentioned, “The way they work, you will feel that they’re working.” This implies that individuals should prepare for some level of discomfort, which is normal and not harmful.
Moderna’s trials revealed that some participants experienced severe side effects that affected their daily activities, including fatigue and muscle pain, particularly after the second dose. The Pfizer vaccine similarly reports fatigue and headaches after the second shot.
Navigating Side Effects: COVID-19 is More Dangerous
While side effects can be unpleasant, the threat posed by COVID-19 is far greater. Experts emphasize the importance of public education regarding vaccines. A recent Kaiser Family Foundation Vaccine Monitor indicated that 71% of Americans, regardless of race or political affiliation, are now inclined to receive a COVID-19 vaccine, although 27% remain hesitant, even if the vaccine is deemed safe and provided at no cost.
Republicans show the least willingness to vaccinate at 42%, followed by those in the 30-49 age bracket at 36%, and 35% of Black adults, a demographic significantly impacted by the pandemic. Alarmingly, one-third of essential workers in healthcare settings express reluctance to get vaccinated.
To prevent the 71% from being alarmed by reports of individuals missing work post-vaccination due to side effects, the Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy suggests several strategies. These include ensuring vaccines are free and readily available, mandating vaccination for access to essential venues like schools and workplaces while allowing exemptions, and having influential public figures receive their vaccinations publicly.
Open discussions about common side effects are crucial. People should hear about these reactions from trusted healthcare professionals and through community dialogues so they understand that experiencing mild effects post-vaccination is expected.
Those who express concerns about feeling unwell after the shot could be encouraged to rethink their stance, as enduring mild discomfort can be seen as a contribution to community health. If we frame these reactions positively, they could transform into a symbol of solidarity in the fight against the pandemic.
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In summary, while side effects from COVID-19 vaccines are a concern for many, understanding their nature and the risks of COVID-19 itself can help increase vaccination rates. Public awareness and education will be vital in fostering a more informed and healthier society.
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