The COVID-19 vaccine has finally made its debut in the US.
Shipments are set to arrive at their destinations, including in Milwaukee today.
The first rollout of the vaccine only includes 6.4 million doses which will be dispersed across the country. With a population of over 300 Million people, the vaccine will only be available to a just under 3%.
Milwaukee County health officials say they want to distribute the vaccine first to those with higher exposure risks to the virus which includes health care workers, emergency responders and nursing homes. It may take some time before it gets to everyone else. The Milwaukee VA Medical Center will be one of 37 VA sites across the country to receive some of the first vaccine batch.
President Trump announced that his early plan of vaccinating all top government official against COVID-19 will be postponed. Like other health officials, he wants to make sure that those who need it receive it first.
Health officials warn that, even with this progress, the pandemic could get worse before it gets better. Remember that vaccination is a personal choice. Do your research. Here are a couple things that we know about the COVID-19 vaccine thus far:
1. Vaccines normally take 10 years to develop. The COVID-19 vaccine took less than a year.
2. The vaccine was 95% effective in clinical trials.
3. The vaccine has to be transported and kept at -70 Celsius.
4. Persons over 16 will qualify for vaccination and effect that it may have on expectant moms remain inconclusive.
5. The vaccine is administered in two doses, three weeks apart.
6. Even if you are vaccinated, you may be protected against getting sick, but you may not be protected from infection.
7. Keep on social distancing.
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