With the Covid-19 vaccine rollout of Pfizer and Astra Zeneca ramping up in Australia and the recent distribution of Moderna, Ozford is able to slowly start making a return to campus over the next month or two but it is vital that we all get vaccinated to ensure the safety of each and every one of our Ozford community. However, there are still many left with doubts about the efficacy and safety around the jabs.
Let’s review some common myths circulating around the vaccine and look at the reliable facts to demonstrate why it is important to go and get vaccinated.
Myth: If I’ve already had Covid-19, I don’t need the vaccine
False.
You can actually catch Covid-19 more than once, so just because you’ve already contracted the virus, does not mean you are off the hook! You will still need to get vaccinated to protect yourself and others from Covid-19 and any other variants which may arise.
Myth: Researchers rushed the development of the Covid-19 vaccine and therefore it is not as effective and cannot be trusted.
False.
The Pfizer/BioNTech and Moderna vaccines were both produced using a method which had been in development for years. Despite what some may believe, the people developing the vaccines didn’t actually skip any testing steps but fast-tracked their schedule by conducting steps in an overlapping schedule in order to obtain the data faster. Due to social media, companies were also able to gain many volunteers to assist in the vaccine testing and research which advanced the process.
Myth: Receiving the vaccine means I don’t have to wear a mask anymore nor take precautions when out and about.
The Centre for Diseases and Control (CDC) recommends that even after receiving both does for the vaccine, people should wear a mask indoors and in spaces where you are unable to physically distance. Despite having the Covid vaccine, you can still contract the virus and although you may not be highly affected by it or experience symptoms, if you come into contact with someone who is unvaccinated, you could cause serious harm to that person if they contract the virus from you. Therefore, it is important that you follow safety guidelines to protect yourself and those around you!
Myth: The side effects of the Covid-19 vaccine are dangerous
Both Pfizer, Moderna and AstraZeneca have side effects, but the vast majority of these effects are short term and not dangerous. It is very normal to experience pain or achiness after receiving an injection to your arm. Other symptoms reported have been headaches or fevers lasting a day or two. It is important however, when booking your appointment, to ensure that you get the vaccine which is recommended for your age group.
If you have severe allergies or medical conditions ensure that you discuss your Covid-19 vaccine with your doctor, who can assess the risks and provide you adequate information about the safety of getting vaccinated.
Myth: The Covid-19 vaccine effects women’s fertility.
False.
The Covid-19 vaccine does not affect fertility. Allegations arose when false reports surfaced on social media, but in fact during the Pfizer vaccine test trials, 23 female volunteers became pregnant, and the only woman who suffered a pregnancy loss had received a placebo not the actual vaccine.
Please ensure you go out and get vaccinated. As we start to return face to face on campus, Ozford will continue to take precautions to ensure the safety of both staff and students. QR codes will still be mandatory for checking in and there will be temperature checks at reception for when you arrive. Masks must be worn indoors and the upkeep of general hygiene like washing hands is highly recommended.