As the vaccine rollout continues across the province, we are thrilled that child care workers in licensed child care settings are the most recent group of essential workers to become eligible for vaccinations!
Let’s face it – the last year has been devastating for so many of us for so many reasons. But there are some glimmers of hope on the horizon. Studies show that the vaccine is extremely effective in lowering the transmission rate of Covid-19. Roughly 30 per cent of the population of Canada has received at least one Covid-19 vaccination, while the case counts across Canada and Ontario are showing signs of slowing down. This means that our hard work is starting to pay off.
Still not certain about whether or not you want to get vaccinated? Here are a few Myths and Facts that might help you decide. And watch the video below to hear why some of our YWCA Hamilton staff have chosen to get vaccinated!
From the Public Health Agency of Canada, Public Health Ontario and the World Health Organization:
Myth: The COVID-19 vaccine is not safe because it was created quickly
Fact: The virus that causes COVID-19 is not completely new; similar viruses such as SARS and MERS-CoV have been studied very well. The vaccine went through the same approval requirements as other vaccines used across the world, including vaccine testing using volunteers from different backgrounds and races. The COVID-19 vaccine creation was funded by many countries and has been approved by health experts from countries across the world.
Myth: The COVID-19 vaccine will change my DNA
Fact: Some COVID-19 vaccines are made of mRNA, which is a genetic material. The mRNA in these vaccines never goes into the nucleus part of the cell, which is where our DNA is. Therefore, the mRNA in these vaccines will not do anything to your DNA.
Myth: The COVID-19 vaccine has severe side effects and is dangerous for your health
Fact: There may be short-term and mild reactions, like mild fever, sore arm and headache that go away without complications. Health experts are keeping track of these reactions. These mild reactions are normal; these reactions mean the vaccine is working in your body. Serious reactions like an allergic reaction are rare. You will be asked to stay at the vaccination site for 15-30 minutes after the vaccine so medical staff can monitor you and provide help if needed.
Myth: I can die from receiving the COVID-19 vaccine
Fact: No one is known to have died as a direct result of the COVID-19 vaccine.
Myth: There are long-term side effects of the COVID-19 vaccine
Fact: Ongoing studies have not found any long-term side effects to date. Studies will continue to monitor.
Myth: The COVID-19 vaccine will give me COVID-19
Fact: No. The vaccines approved in Canada so far, do not contain the virus that causes COVID-19. Myth: The vaccines will not provide long lasting protection from COVID-19 Fact: Studies are still underway. Public health will let the public know if they require booster shots when the information is available.
Myth: I had COVID-19 so; I do not need to get vaccinated
Fact: We still do not know enough about this virus; some people have gotten COVID-19 more than once. Even if you have had COVID-19, it is still recommended to get vaccinated.