As the COVID-19 vaccine rollout continues across the U.S. and in Nebraska, you may be wondering if getting vaccinated is right for you.
If you are weighing the risks and benefits before you make your decision, it’s important to note that the vaccines are safe. Millions of people have safely received the vaccine, and the vaccines went through the most intensive safety monitoring in U.S. history before their release. You can read more about the safety of COVID-19 vaccines on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website.
There are many benefits of getting a COVID-19 vaccine. University Health Center Medical Director Heather Eberspacher, MD, shares four of the top reasons to get vaccinated:
It protects you from getting COVID-19.
Studies show that all COVID-19 vaccines currently available in the U.S. are highly effective at preventing COVID-19. If you happen to get COVID-19 despite being vaccinated, the vaccine will likely help keep you from getting seriously ill.
It protects your fellow Huskers, family and community members.
Getting vaccinated reduces the chance of spreading the virus to those around you. This is especially important for immunocompromised individuals and those who are unable to get vaccinated.
It’s a safer way to build immunity.
A quick vaccine poke and mild side effects are nothing compared to the possibility of developing severe or life-threatening complications from getting infected with COVID-19. This is primarily why achieving herd immunity through vaccination rather than natural immunity is the better option.
It can help us end the pandemic.
Physical distancing, washing your hands and wearing a face covering are all important tools to help limit the spread of COVID-19, but they are not enough. Vaccines will work with your immune system, so it is ready to fight the virus if you are exposed. The combination of getting vaccinated and following other pandemic prevention methods offer the best protection from COVID-19 and will help us get back to everyday life.
More details at: https://health.unl.edu/covid-19-vaccines