by USA Today Staff
Today, 7 in 10 American adults have received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, but the new rise in cases fueled by the delta variant threatens to undo the country’s progress toward normality.
We know it can be hard to sort through all the information out there, so we reviewed issues and objections related to COVID-19 vaccines and provided science-based responses, ways you can get help and research further.
You are well-protected from severe illness, hospitalization, and death due to COVID-19 as cases surge across the nation.
Congratulations!
If you encounter friends and family who are hesitant, talk to them.
To help someone else,
The Kaiser Family Foundation survey found that 17% of the vaccine hesitant were convinced to get a shot by a family member and 5% were convinced by a friend.
No, I am unsure or unable
OK, let’s see if we can help answer any questions you may have.
"I’ve heard it’s not effective against the delta variant."
Research shows it's effective.
Vaccines are slightly less effective against delta, but are still extremely effective compared with being unvaccinated and prevent severe illness.
"It’s not FDA approved."
Pfizer’s vaccine has full FDA approval for those 16 and older.
Moderna and Johnson & Johnson, which have emergency FDA authorization, are further behind in the licensure process, but are expected to go through the same steps in the coming months.
"I heard that there are bad side effects."
Most side effects are mild, and some people have none at all.
You may feel sick or experience soreness, swelling, fatigue, a headache or chills, but these symptoms should resolve after a few days and show your immune system is working.
“I already had COVID, so I don’t need the vaccine.”
You could get reinfected.
Those who recover from COVID have virus-fighting antibodies, but unvaccinated people are more than twice as likely to get reinfected than vaccinated ones, according to a study published by the CDC.
“If my kids can't get the vaccine, why should I?”
To protect them.
According to the CDC, a growing body of evidence indicates that fully vaccinated people are less likely than unvaccinated persons to acquire SARS-CoV-2 or to transmit it to others.
“I have no access to transportation.”
Free rides are available.
Uber and Lyft are providing free rides to and from vaccine sites—check the apps for more information. Also check your state health department’s website for free shuttle services to and from vaccine locations.
"How do I get a vaccine?
I don’t know where to go."
Here’s what you need to do:
To find vaccines available near you, go to vaccines.gov or text your ZIP code to 438 829.