COVID-19 Updates

As we continue through the end of 2021 and prepare for the beginning of 2022, there have been several new updates on COVID-19 and how people across the globe have been handling it. Government systems are working diligently to ensure people’s safety and to limit the spread of the virus. This is being handled through the distribution of vaccines, which actively reduce COVID-19 infection rates. Mentioned in this article is expanded information on access to the vaccine and awareness of misinformation.

Recently approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the COVID-19 vaccine is currently available to children from the age of 5-1. The purpose is to prevent children from contracting the virus and/or experiencing harsher symptoms from COVID-19. As listed by the CDC, the most common severe symptoms of COVID-19 include: shortness of breath, confusion, pain within the chest region, lack of ability to stay awake [2]. If any of these symptoms are experienced, then it’s essential to go to the hospital immediately. So far, there has been a recorded 91% success rate with children aged 5-11 receiving the COVID-19 vaccine. In order for the FDA to approve the vaccine for children this young, they looked at previous vaccine studies conducted by scientists. This study included 4,600 children with 3,100 children given the Pfizer vaccine and the remaining given a placebo [1].

Many misconceptions exist surrounding COVID-19 and the vaccine. According to USA Today, only 40% of Americans know vaccinated people are less likely to test positive for the virus. This lack of awareness is greatly concerning, as people are being informed of the behavior of the vaccine. The vaccine for COVID-19 does not guarantee that one will not be infected by the virus, however, it reduces the probability of infection. People who are vaccinated can still contract COVID-19, but will most likely experience more manageable symptoms [3]. For people who are at higher risk of catching the virus, third and fourth shots are approved. The best way to navigate this situation is to stay updated with any new federal updates and stay as informed as possible.

All in all, COVID-19 is still an issue that we have to recognize. Even though places are becoming less strict in their rules/regulations regarding the virus, it is still a prevalent world issue. When people gather in large groups, there is still the possibility of spreading the virus. There are misconceptions involving COVID-19; well-researched and reliable information is a crucial apparatus in our united fight against COVID-19.

1.“Covid-19 Vaccines for Kids: What You Need to Know.” Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 5 Nov. 2021,https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/coronavirus/in-depth/covid-19-vaccines-for-kids/art-20513332.

2.“Symptoms of COVID-19.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2021,https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/symptoms-testing/symptoms.html.

3.Ortiz, Jorge L., and John Bacon. “Only 40% of Americans Know Vaccinated People Are Less Likely to Test Positive, Poll Says: Covid-19 Updates.” USA Today, Gannett Satellite Information Network, 27 Oct. 2021,https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/health/2021/10/27/covid-vaccine-mask-mandate-pandemic-cdc-fda/8560621002/.