LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

A COVID VACCINE

IS ON THE HORIZON

by Ray Manzari

As 2020 comes to a close, we are brought hopeful news of two highly effective COVID vaccines. With the FDA approving Pfizer’s vaccine for emergency use in October, and authorization of Moderna’s gaining approval by the end of the year, officials are saying we could see a return to normalcy by next June. Both vaccines require two doses administered 21 days apart. Clinical trials held that both vaccines were operating at a 95 percent efficiency rate, yet not all Americans felt the same boost of confidence from this report. Most polls show that anywhere from 50 to 70 percent of Americans are willing to get vaccinated, which is not as high as health officials would like to see for a vaccine to fully eradicate the virus. Polls are showing that skepticism is even higher among racial and ethnic minorities, as those groups have been hit especially hard by the disease. However, a diverse group of people participated in every phase of the clinical trials of the vaccine, including populations disproportionately impacted by COVID-19. In Pfizer’s clinical trials, about 42 percent of volunteers identified as Asian, Black/African American, Hispanic/Latinx, or Native American. About 37 percent of volunteers for Moderna’s trials identified as Asian, Black/African American, Hispanic/ Latino/a, or other. In November, officials ruled that distribution would be carried out by the states; however, both the FDA and CDC have issued guidelines for doing so. Officials

recommend that healthcare professionals who work with COVID patients be the first to get the vaccination. Beyond that, other front-line workers, such as nursing home employees and those who are at high risk, such as people over 65, will also receive the vaccine. As there has not been sufficient testing done on vaccinating children, only people 18 years and older will be eligible to receive vaccines. Colorado is adopting a phase-in approach to vaccinating its residents, much like the guidelines set by health officials. Phase one will include healthcare workers, hospice workers, fire fighters, EMTs, police officers, correction officers, and COVID response personnel. Phase two, which is likely to start in the spring of 2021, includes people who are 65 or older, people with conditions which leave them immunocompromised, people who interact directly with the public during work, or people who work in high-density settings. Phase three, which it set to start in the summer, includes the general public. Pfizer vaccines began distribution on December 14, and as states and cities prepared for the incoming shipments, many released statements regarding distribution plans. Denver’s website assures that anyone who receives the first dose of the vaccine will be able to get the second within the 21-day period. Denver will be vaccinating its residents for free; however, pharmacists or providers may ask for insurance so that they can bill for the vaccine administration fee.

Denver officials warn that although the end is in sight, now is not the time to become complacent.

“Until the vaccine is widely available, we all need to continue following critical public health protocols. Wear a mask in public; maintain at least six feet of distance from others; avoid gatherings; wash your hands often, and stay home when you are sick,” reads the Denver COVID information website.

Weathering hardships and challenges, we made it, a new year.

Make the commitment to take time for you in 2021.

When you need help, we’re here, providing a safe space and outstanding staff, who care about your mental health wellness.

Call us today

303.617.2300 aumhc.org