I read with great dismay and disappointment that approximate 40% of healthcare providers in long-term care settings are declining to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. We have an obligation to remain healthy and protect the lives of our patients and family, and being vaccinated is an essential way to accomplish this. We now have another good reason to accept the vaccine. In doing so, we can avoid becoming a “long hauler.”
NBC health reported that of the more than 28 million Americans diagnosed with COVID-19, an estimate of 10 to 30% – possibly as many as 8.4 million people – fall into the category commonly known as “long haulers.” These COVID-19 patients continue to have symptoms months after the acute infections have cleared.
Many of them are dealing with nonspecific, intermittent, lingering symptoms such as fatigue, shortness of breath, nausea or heart palpitations. Unfortunately, there is no magic cure at this point as the acute treatments including Remdesivir and corticosteroids are not effective in the chronic stage.
There was a great quote by Buddha that said “Every human being is the author of his own health or disease. “ We have a responsibility to ourselves, our jobs, and our families to author good health. If we don’t take time for our wellness, we may be forced to make time for illness. For the unfortunate 10 to 30% of the COVID-19 patients, this time may be months.
The vaccines thus far have been proven to be remarkably safe and effective. It can be said with certainty that the disease itself is exponentially worse than any potential vaccine side effects.
Author a healthy life.
Stay well!
Ask Dr S. 