Despite the efficacy of vaccines, vaccine hesitancy — the belief that a vaccine may be unnecessary, ineffective or unsafe in the fight against the COVID -19 pandemic — is common in many countries including Anguilla. We, as health professionals, must do more to correct the misinformation that is so prevalent in Anguilla, today. Individuals are entitled to their own views, but they should always stick to the correct facts. Regarding the Covid-19 vaccine, individuals are encouraged to do their own research and get information from credible sources.
Recognising concerns
I know many individuals have concerns about the COVID-19 vaccine. It is OK to have questions and concerns related to the vaccine, and many of the concerns might be legitimate and should be addressed. Some individuals have cultural and religious concerns while others are fearful of future side effects. Individuals are encouraged to talk with their doctor, or another healthcare provider, about their concerns and questions. In the vast majority of times these concerns can be addressed. In the final analysis getting a COVID-19 vaccine is a personal choice.
What are the facts related to COVID-19 vaccine?
COVID-19 vaccine information is widely available, but the following are some facts that might prove helpful in overcoming vaccine hesitancy in Anguilla:
The COVID-19 vaccine can protect you from getting severe symptoms and prevent death from the virus infection. The COVID-19 vaccines work with your immune system so your body will be ready to fight the coronavirus if you are exposed to it. As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, getting the vaccine is a powerful step in taking charge of your health.
COVID-19 infection is not the same as getting the common cold. It is not the flu. Only a few individuals would deny that millions of individuals have died from COVID-19 infection. The pandemic is real and can have disastrous effects on the community. Getting vaccinated for COVID-19 helps others in your community who cannot be vaccinated – like pregnant women and children.
The Covid-19 vaccine cannot give an individual COVID-19 infection as the vaccine does not contain the virus.
Yes, a few individuals do develop a few side effects after getting the vaccine. The benefits of the vaccines in preventing infections, hospitalisations, and deaths, far outweigh the risks of these side effects. Most side effects are mild, such as fever and a sore arm where the needle went in. These go away in a few days. You can take painkillers, such as paracetamol, if you need to.
Allergies – Most experts agree that people with allergies to certain foods, insects, latex and other common allergens can get a COVID-19 vaccine. If you have ever had a severe allergic reaction to a vaccine, be sure to discuss that with your doctor who can evaluate you and assess your risk. However, if you are severely allergic to any of the coronavirus vaccines’ ingredients, you should not be vaccinated.
Breast feeding – The vaccines are safe for breastfeeding mothers, and do not harm a woman’s ability to become pregnant. Infertility is not a side effect of any of the approved COVID-19 vaccines.
Misinformation is widespread. All of us have heard that the vaccines contain microchips, for example, or will alter DNA, or are part of satanic rituals. This false information is spreading through Facebook posts, and WhatsApp private messages, and is contributing to vaccine hesitancy. Before forwarding messages, individuals should make sure they check the source of the information and if it is credible.
Why the urgency to be vaccinated against COVID-19?
Some people are deciding not to get the coronavirus vaccines until more people have had them. But waiting too long to be vaccinated allows the coronavirus to continue spreading in the community, with new variants emerging. New variants can be more infectious and more deadly as we are now seeing in India. The sooner you get vaccinated, the sooner you are protected. This would also decrease the chances of other variants developing in Anguilla.
The COVID pandemic is not over
There is evidence that COVID 19 vaccine has result in less cases in countries that have implemented vaccination programmes, there is doubt that the pandemic is not over. In our neighbouring Caribbean islands, like Trinidad and the Bahamas, the number of positive COVID-19 cases is rapidly increasing.
Even if you are vaccinated, you should continue to wash your hands properly and frequently, adopt cough hygiene measures, and practise physical distancing until the pandemic is over. You should always follow the protocols as determined by the Ministry of Health.
Conclusion
Vaccine hesitancy can affect people of all different backgrounds, ages and ethnicities. I am aware of vaccine hesitancy in Anguilla, although the number appears to be decreasing. If you are hesitant about COVID-19 vaccine, I encourage you to do your own research, talk to your doctor or another healthcare provider. Take the time to ask questions and learn all you can about the COVID-19 vaccine from reliable sources so you can make the most informed decision about getting vaccinated. After over a year of coronavirus pandemic closures, cancellations and postponements, everyone is eager about returning to normal. Though no one is sure when the pandemic will be over, every person who gets protection from the coronavirus, by getting vaccinated, helps us move closer to a normal life.
Ask Your Dr is a health education column and is not a substitute for medical advice from your physician. The reader should consult his or her physician for specific information concerning specific medical conditions. While all reasonable efforts have been made to ensure that all information presented is accurate, as research and development in the medical field are ongoing, it is possible that new findings may supersede some data presented.
Dr Brett Hodge MB BS DGO MRCOG is an obstetrician/Gynaecologist and Family Doctor with over thirty-eight years in clinical practice. Dr Brett Hodge has a medical practice in The Johnson Building in The Valley (Tel: 264 497 5828).
