Covid Vaccine

We have received alot of calls regarding when the Covid Vaccine will be available. The vaccine is just now rolling out. In most counties, it is only available to front line workers and long term care facilities. Each county will have their own procedures on how to register for the vaccine and will be done in phases depending on protocol and as shipments arrive. You can visit the link below to see how they are distributing the vaccine in your county. Make sure to check daily on updates as things change by the minute.

Private offices cannot get the vaccine currently. This may change in the coming months.

https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2020/12/28/heres-how-you-will-know-when-you-can-get-the-covi...

There will be a press conference today, December 28th, 2020, at 4:30pm to announce the plans for Orange County Vaccine distribution.

I received the vaccine a week ago now. I did not experience any side effects except for mild arm soreness the next day. I was more emotional than anything else. This signifies a light at the end of the tunnel and a way for me to help protect my family, patients, and loved ones. It is safe and I urge you all to get it once it is available for you. This process will take time and a lot of patience.

Even after getting the vaccine, it is highly recommended to continue to wear a mask, social distance, and wash your hands. The vaccine is about 95% effective. For those that do still get infected there is an 85% reduction in hospitalizations. If infected most vaccinated people are expected to be asymptomatic or only mildly symptomatic. But, that means you can still pass it on to others. This is a step in the right direction, but we still have to be vigilant and practice proper precautions for ourselves and for others. There is a light at the end of the tunnel and we are many steps closer to that light.

As always, stay safe and healthy.

Have a Happy New Year!

Tania Velez, MD, DIMPH