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I’ve a confession: when the primary COVID-19 vaccines have been authorised by the FDA in late 2020, I used to be reluctant to get one myself. Though I labored within the public well being discipline and believed strongly in vaccines to maintain our neighborhood wholesome, I used to be involved about bringing one thing into my physique that appeared so new. I assumed, “What if the vaccine is harmful?” “What about long-term unwanted effects?”
I’m a part of the LGBTQ + neighborhood. Our story might clarify why I hesitated.
Are LGBTQ + individuals extra reluctant to get the vaccine?
In March a New York Occasions One article reported that LGBTQ + individuals have been extra reluctant to get the COVID-19 vaccine. A analysis examine performed by the human rights marketing campaign reported combined outcomes: whereas LGBTQ + individuals total usually tend to be vaccinated, sure subgroups equivalent to coloration LGBTQ + individuals and bisexual ladies are much less prone to be vaccinated.
LGBTQ + individuals have good purpose to hesitate about vaccines. Up to now, this inhabitants has been and has been discriminated in opposition to in numerous conditions, together with within the healthcare sector. On the identical time, this inhabitants is extra susceptible to COVID-19 (see this examine and an earlier weblog put up I wrote). LGBTQ + people who’re additionally individuals of coloration could also be much more reluctant to obtain the COVID-19 vaccine as trauma and oppression come from a number of overlapping marginalized identities that kind the idea of suspicion in healthcare and medical analysis . We are able to depend racism, transphobia, biphobia, and homophobia amongst such oppressions.
Weighing the Dangers and Advantages of the COVID-19 Vaccine
When attempting to determine whether or not to get the vaccine, I began studying in regards to the vaccine from trusted sources such because the Facilities for Illness Management and Prevention (CDC). I’ve additionally spoken to individuals I do know and belief, equivalent to shut pals, relations, and fellow medical doctors. I requested her, “Will you get the vaccine in case you are supplied it?” Everybody gave me a convincing “Sure!” Most shared this rationale: Whereas we nonetheless do not find out about long-term unwanted effects, this vaccine is just like different vaccines which have been round for a while, and the advantages of vaccination far outweigh the dangers of getting critical sickness and even dying from COVID-19 .
Once I was supplied the vaccine earlier this yr, I instantly booked my appointment with out hesitation and did not look again. As quickly as I received the primary shot and was totally vaccinated two weeks after my second shot, I felt profoundly relieved. I additionally felt empowered to take an essential step to guard myself, my household, and my neighborhood from COVID-19. I now really feel safer and free in my day by day life. I’m going to shops (with a masks) with out feeling anxious and I’ve been capable of go to different totally vaccinated individuals in individual like my mom with out a masks.
In case you are having hassle deciding on the COVID-19 vaccine, this choice grid could be useful (be aware: automated obtain). The grid walks you thru the advantages in addition to the brief time period and long run dangers of not receiving the vaccine in comparison with the vaccines at present accessible.
Why the vaccine is essential to LGBTQ + communities
Quite a few “pandemics” have already worn out giant numbers of the LGBTQ + neighborhood: HIV / AIDS, violence, suicide. As well as, the COVID-19 pandemic has already induced disproportionate harm to LGBTQ + individuals (see this examine and this report). LGBTQ + seniors and other people of coloration are on the best threat of great, probably life-threatening sickness from COVID-19. If every of us takes steps to get vaccinated, we are able to stop extra deaths and damaging well being outcomes in our communities.
How are you going to empower your self to obtain the COVID-19 vaccine?
- Discover out what COVID-19 vaccines are, how they work, and why they’re secure.
- Discuss to trusted specialists and other people in your life about your fears.
- Presently, anybody within the US who’s 16 years or older is eligible for the vaccine, so you’ll be able to schedule an appointment to dwell to get vaccinated.
Extra assets
- Extra info on COVID-19 and vaccines:
- Fenway Well being COVID-19 Sources
- CDC COVID-19 info
- Methods to Keep away from COVID-19 Vaccine Fraud
- What are you able to do after vaccination?
The post-COVID-19 vaccines and the LGBTQ + neighborhood have been first printed on the Harvard Well being Weblog.
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