The month of October is bringing more news about a potential COVID-19 vaccine. The federal government announced a plan to administer free vaccines to nursing home residents and staff through Walgreens and CVS, the two largest pharmacy chains in the country. Pharmaceutical company Pfizer also said it could be applying with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for emergency use of their vaccine as early as November.
But with this being the fastest-produced vaccine in the history of medicine, should you have confidence that it will be safe? Oak Hill Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing has five things to know about the COVID-19 vaccine, courtesy of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
- Safety is the Top Priority
The U.S. has long-time safeguards in place to ensure that all vaccines are as safe as possible. The FDA is requiring a two-month monitoring period of those participating in trials before they will authorize use.
- Some Vaccines Will Be Ready Before Others
The CDC is working with all companies and with all levels of government (federal, state, local) to have a plan to rollout each one when it is ready.
- Vaccine May Be for Emergency Use Only at First
It’s expected that the FDA will give vaccine candidates an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) at first in order to ensure that high-risk people are the first ones vaccinated.
- Supply Will Increase Through 2021
While the initial supply will be limited, the goal is to make the vaccine easily accessible for all Americans. It is expected to be available at doctor’s offices, pharmacies, hospitals, and health centers.
- Doses Will Be Free or Low-Cost
Vaccine doses purchased with U.S. taxpayer dollars will be provided at no cost. There may be some administration fees from providers, but most public and private insurance companies have vowed to cover those costs.
To learn more about Oak Hill Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing and all of the services they offer, visit https://oak-hill-center.facilities.centershealthcare.org/.
