The Vaccine Has Arrived in Lincoln, Neb.: Here is What You Should Know

So, COVID-19 is a thing. I know this is not something that needs to be said. We all have been affected in some way or another by the pandemic, but a vaccine has been released that could potentially help flatten the curve of the coronavirus. Some people, such as nursing majors or those at risk, may have already gotten it or are planning to in the future.

         The vaccine is currently being given to three demographics in two doses. The first group is the medical and emergency workers. Next is essential workers fighting COVID-19 right now. The third are those at high risk over the age of 65. After this happens, the plan is for the vaccine to become available to the public in April.

         I was able to speak to the The Clocktower’s Jade Covel, who had received the vaccine through her job as a member of the fire department. The fire department took care of the scheduling and paperwork needed for the experience. All Covel needed to do was visit the Dept. of Health. She told me that she was thankful for several things: She was thankful that she was part of the first few people to be part of something new in the world and she was grateful to receive it in hopes that it will keep her safe.

 Jade did have a bit of a rough experience. For starters, she is deathly afraid of needles. That would make the experience hard enough as is, but there is a bit more. As mentioned above, the vaccine is given in two doses. The first dose that Jade received did not come with any side effects, but the second dose came with nausea, fever and chills for 24 hours. Her biggest fear was that this was COVID-19 and they simply had not caught it in time. These side effects, however, are common with the second dose and resolved within that 24-hour window.

I asked Jade for advice to anyone who plans on getting the vaccine. She said, “Don’t be afraid. And if you feel symptoms coming on, don’t freak out. Spend a day in bed watching Netflix. Just don’t freak out.”

At this point, it is hard to tell if the vaccine will truly flatten the curve. With the new strains of COVID-19 spreading, we can only hope and wait at this point. Right now, we can continue to be strong. Like Jade said, “Don’t be afraid.”

TJ Pittinger is a junior

theologoy major from

Gilson, Ill.