By Dennis Richardson, Magic Valley Publishing
I have read mixed reviews about the COVID-19 vaccine, especially one that is of particular interest to this writer: the second shot.
Some of what I read is somewhat worrisome. My second shot is scheduled for Monday, April 5. Should I continue on track to get it or simply forget it and take my chances?
What I have read is that the vaccine is designed to activate one’s immune systems, giving some a little dose of what having COVID-19 would be like.
I have been tested twice. The first test was the one where they pass a long swab up into the “inner passage” of the nose which in effect feels like it is reaching to the edge of the brain. Then another long swab is passed deep down the throat.
Test #2 was the quick test, where only the inside of both nostrils were swabbed. It was called for after I showed a temperature of 99 at the doctor’s office during a checkup. Fifteen minutes later came the same results as the first: negative.
It is not without trepidation that I will probably go with my gut feeling, “man up” and get the second vaccine Monday. It is Moderna. Some get Phizer. Lisa was the smartest of us all. She got Johnson and Johnson, which is only one dose, and now she’s done with it. She survived, only getting a sore arm for the day and a groggy feeling for a few days.
I would appreciate others sharing experiences with the vaccine on this page. Good or bad, I would like to hear about it: which one, any reactions, or no reactions at all?
I have this feeling that our readers would like to read about it, too. That is what community newspapers do, represent our communities. We want to hear from you. I respect those who choose not to get any vaccine. After all, it is new and we do not have any histories just yet. I am strongly against making vaccines mandatory.
Those who live near the Krispy Kreme now get a free glazed donut when they show their vaccine card. Now isn’t that a sweet treat?
The editors of this newspaper try to keep the public up-to-date on COVID news. After you have read all the local news in this newspaper and have laid it on the coffee table, share it with a neighbor or a friend. Encourage them to get their own yearly subscription to share. It is a good deal!
Dennis Richardson is the CEO of Magic Valley Publishing, Inc., which owns the Chester County Independent.
