In this time of uncertainty, knowing what peers are experiencing can be comforting. Banner News polled Boone DMACC’s students to find out what they think of the COVID-19 vaccine, how it affected them, and other questions.
Out of 94 individuals who answered, 71.28% received the vaccine, and 28.72% did not. Out of 63 vaccinated responders, 25.4% received Moderna’s dose, 65.08% received Pfizer’s dose, and 9.52% received J&J’s dose. Why did they choose to get the vaccine? Out of those who responded, 66.67%, said they trusted the science behind it, 39.68% were either immunocompromised or knew someone who was, and some were required to for work or schooling.
DMACC offered a chance for those vaccinated to be entered into a drawing for $1,000. However, 96.83% said the incentive did not affect their decision whether or not to receive the vaccine, while 3.17% said it did.
Many people are concerned about the possible side effects, so Banner News gathered the numbers. After receiving the vaccine, 55.56% experienced fatigue, 50.79% a headache, 47.62% pain/swelling at the injection site, and one other experienced tachycardia (rapid heartbeat). Out of 62 answers, most found it somewhat easy to locate a vaccine clinic.
It can be hard to find credible sources, but 58 people who were vaccinated, the most common were the CDC, doctors, work (nurses), and scholarly medical articles. Out of 18 answers from those who had not received the vaccine, the most common were general professionals, social media, word of mouth, and reliable sources that aren’t politically influenced.
Out of 26 unvaccinated people, 80.77% think there is not enough data about the vaccine, 76.92% fear long-term vaccine effects, and 73.08% fear potential side effects. Out of them. 92.31% do not plan on getting vaccinated in the future, and 7.69% do plan on it.
It was unanimous that none of the incentives (money, gift cards, etc) interested anyone to receive the vaccine. Some thought the incentive to get the vaccine is “creepy,” that money shouldn’t be offered to receive a vaccine.
We’re constantly learning more and more about the vaccine, but more research is required for any public health concern.