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In just two weeks, I’ll be getting my second dose of the Pfizer COVID vaccine. Initially, I hesitated about getting vaccinated at all. However, after discussing it with friends and family, I realized that this is part of the process—much like the journey many faced when the flu shot was introduced. So, I gathered my courage, stopped focusing on the news coverage of nurses administering shots, and waited for my turn. Now, I see it in a new light: just like enjoying a second drink after the first. If you’re unsure about getting that second shot, don’t hesitate. Just go for it!
We all chuckled (or at least I hope we did) at the absurdity of former President Donald Trump suggesting people drink bleach to ward off COVID-19. But let’s be real—getting your second dose of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine brings us closer to achieving herd immunity.
What is Herd Immunity?
Dr. Christopher Murray from the University of Washington’s Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation explains it well: “Herd immunity is reached when enough individuals have been infected or vaccinated, making it impossible for the virus to spread in the community. When one case results in less than one new infection, the spread eventually diminishes.” Dr. Fauci also pointed out in The New York Times that while the classic definition of herd immunity may not apply, vaccinating a sufficient number of people will lead to a decrease in infections.
The takeaway? Make sure to get both shots. The more individuals who are vaccinated, the better we can halt the virus’s spread.
It’s true that the side effects from the second dose can be uncomfortable; you might experience a mild fever or gastrointestinal issues. But trust me—contracting COVID-19 is far worse than dealing with a few unpleasant symptoms. You can easily manage a day of discomfort with some saltines and soup. So, spare yourself the hassle and the serious risks associated with COVID, and get that second shot. Don’t be one of the 5 million people who got the first dose but skipped the second.
Why Are So Many People Opting Out?
Various reasons contribute to this trend, as reported by The New York Times. Some individuals fear side effects, especially if they had adverse reactions after the first shot. Others simply forget to schedule their second appointment within the required 21 or 28-day timeframe. There may also be issues with vaccine availability at pharmacies, or some college students leave campus after their first shot. Lastly, some people mistakenly believe that one dose is enough. Spoiler alert: it’s not!
Dr. Emily Landon from the University of Chicago Medicine warned CBS News that the nation’s progress in fighting COVID could “absolutely regress” if not enough people complete the vaccination process. “Not getting your second shot means you’re essentially giving up on your immunity. You could be at risk for COVID just a few months after your first shot,” she cautioned. Plus, your immunity against the existing variants will be significantly lower.
If the number of individuals skipping their second shot continues to rise, we may never reach herd immunity, and infection rates will keep escalating. Being “fully vaccinated” means having received both doses, which enhances your body’s defenses against COVID.
On social media, the Friendly Neighbor Epidemiologist compares vaccination to painting a wall: “The first dose primes, while the second dose sustains. Think of primer (the first dose) prepping the wall for a lasting coat of paint (the second dose).”
If you’ve already committed to the first shot, keep the momentum going and get your second dose. If you’re considering a single dose, you might want to look into the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, which is safe and available. But if you’ve chosen the Pfizer or Moderna route, it’s time to finish the job. According to the CDC, the Moderna vaccine is 94.1% effective after both doses, while the Pfizer vaccine boasts 95% efficacy. Those are great odds! And if you’ve surpassed the 21 or 28-day window by a few days, don’t worry—the CDC states that you can wait up to 42 days between doses and still enjoy the benefits of immunity.
So, don’t stall; keep the momentum going and get that second jab. We’re counting on you to do your part!
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Summary
As the COVID vaccination process continues, it’s crucial to get both doses for maximum immunity. Many individuals hesitate to get their second shot for various reasons, but experts emphasize the importance of completing the vaccination to help achieve herd immunity and combat the virus effectively.
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