While the availability of multiple vaccines portends a light at the end of this coronavirus tunnel, the human race must continue to show patience and caution. If vaccines are 90-95% effective in reducing COVID-19’s effects, that still means 5-10% of inoculated people will not be immune… even in Hawai`i. No big deal, you say?
Well, if one-million people locally get vaccinated, that would mean 50,000 to 100,000 inoculated people might still be capable of contracting the virus; plus 400,000 remaining unvaccinated resident adults and kids here. And furthermore, everyone should continue to wear masks, as the virus might still be transmittable by those vaccinated and personally immune. To help educate people, shot-getters locally should be given detailed, written information upon receiving their vaccinations to remind them to still wear masks, wash hands, and practice social distancing even if the vaccine makes them feel invincible. They’re not. The vaccine is a huge step, but it’s not the final word.
Another idea beyond printed handouts at vaccination sites is to take the vaccine to the people. Many people don’t like hospitals, group gatherings, or big city settings. For the elderly, frail, those who speak English as a second language, et al., convenient, localized sites- churches, community centers, school parking lots- might help. Bringing a solution to the people could encourage even greater participation.
A frustrating issue thus far has been coordinating vaccination site intricacies and vaccine arrivals, as authorities simply cannot control the scheduled shipments of the vaccines to Hawai`i. Late-arriving vials throw off orchestrated plans of vaccinators and vaccine recipients, messing up hundreds of schedules, as some of people have other plans on alternative dates.
For the doubters- and I mean the vaccine doubters, not the lingering COVID-19 deniers- maybe we can take photos of respected, local leaders and influencers of various ages and ethnic groups getting vaccinated, and post those pictures on appropriate social media sites to encourage those still a bit unsure locally to get vaccinated.
We have a chance now to curtail this (possibly) last wave of an insidious, evil invader. Far too many lost their COVID composure and compliance consistency over the holiday season, which led to far too many lost lives, or diminished lung capacity. Let’s help to bring this pandemic to a virtual standstill by remaining vigilant in dealing with the realities required in the upcoming, post-vaccine world of late-2021.
Think about it…