Students have recently been given the option to get the COVID-19 vaccine since the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved vaccination for teens on Monday, April 5.
The COVID-19 pandemic has forced the world to make some pretty major changes quickly. From working and learning virtually at the time of the shutdown last spring, to the development and distribution of a vaccine to combat the virus.
Distributing the vaccine to teens is the next big change, and with change comes fear. The vaccine may give some suspicion to others but there are many benefits involved in the process.
Students who will have to decide are no exception.
“It will protect us from getting Covid and possibly dying,” freshman Sydney Vaught said. “The world will be able to get back to normal the faster everyone is vaccinated.”
The COVID-19 vaccines have multiple upsides, but include various amounts of risks and side effects that have been researched by professionals.
“My aunt and grandma have gotten the vaccine,” freshman Lindsey Beaber said. “They both felt very sick for a few days after receiving [it].”
Everyone has conflicting opinions that affect whether the option for getting the vaccine is the right choice.
“When I first heard about the vaccine being available for teens, I was skeptical because the vaccine was created very quickly,” Beaber said. “We don’t know how our bodies will react or if it will even fight off the sickness.”
Most of the Naples community has gotten the vaccine to keep themselves safe and healthy. Biology teacher, Amy Lawson, communicates how people aren’t big fans of needles, but encourages teens to get immunized.
“My entire family is immunized. We all signed up for the vaccine as soon as we were eligible,” Lawson said. “A number of teachers are also immunized.”
Not everyone knows all the information, simply facts that the FDA has released; therefore, it is important to have strong communication with personal physicians.
“I suggest that individuals speak to their doctor regarding any questions or concerns they have about COVID-19 and vaccinations,” health worker Catherine Nguyen said.
