Dr. Zariah Thompson has played a pivotal role in the development of the Moderna vaccine. As a Black viral immunologist and a leading scientist at the National Institutes of Health, her contributions are nothing short of remarkable. With a PhD in microbiology and immunology, Dr. Thompson’s extensive background in infectious diseases paved the way for her significant involvement in the COVID vaccine project. Additionally, she studied sociology to better understand racial disparities and the intersection of science and society.
In a candid conversation with CNN, Dr. Thompson expressed the urgency of preparing for pandemics. “It became very clear that nature was going to have its way if we did not prepare,” she stated. By January 2020, her team was already laying the groundwork, assembling necessary resources and collaborating with Moderna to expedite the vaccine’s development. Dr. Thompson emphasized the importance of “pandemic preparedness,” stating that her team had been working in the coronavirus field for about seven years, which allowed for a swift response when COVID-19 emerged.
As a Black woman on the vaccine development team, Dr. Thompson’s experiences were deeply impacted by the social climate during the pandemic. The summer of 2020 brought to light the vulnerabilities faced by the Black community, particularly in the wake of George Floyd’s murder. “It was a very sad time for me,” she reflected, noting the emotional toll of balancing pandemic pressures with social justice issues. Rather than succumb to despair, Dr. Thompson channeled her motivation into ensuring the vaccine’s successful rollout.
Dr. Thompson recognizes the significant health disparities impacting the Black community, where access to quality healthcare is often limited. She feels a profound sense of responsibility to provide equitable vaccine access and educate her community on its importance. “I understand that vaccines are really a way to help level the playing field when it comes to health disparities,” she remarked.
Throughout the pandemic, Dr. Thompson has been an outspoken advocate for communities of color. She has addressed the vaccine hesitancy often attributed to historical injustices, such as the Tuskegee Syphilis Study, by reframing it as “vaccine inquisitiveness.” She acknowledges the need for trust-building within the Black community, which has been historically marginalized by the medical establishment.
Dr. Thompson actively engages with the public through her social media, sharing valuable information about the vaccine and the science behind it. “I do it to communicate science to people who aren’t scientists,” she explained. By fostering open dialogue and education, she aims to make the public feel included in the vaccine development process, which she believes is crucial for overcoming skepticism.
It’s inspiring to see Dr. Zariah Thompson using her influential position to connect with her community. For many, knowing that a Black woman contributed to the creation of the Moderna vaccine can help alleviate concerns about its safety and efficacy. Her dedication to outreach and education serves as a valuable asset in the fight against COVID-19.
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In summary, Dr. Zariah Thompson’s contributions to the development of the Moderna vaccine highlight her commitment to addressing health disparities and educating the public, particularly within the Black community. Her unique perspective as a Black woman in science empowers her to build trust and foster understanding around vaccination and public health.
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