Chapter 1: Positive Developments in Vaccination

Dear Reader,

This morning brought some uplifting news: Pfizer has announced that its vaccine demonstrates 100% efficacy in adolescents aged 12 to 15. If these results are validated through peer review, they could significantly impact children and their parents who are eager for a secure return to school. At present, individuals under 16 are not yet eligible for vaccination, as noted by science journalist Emily Willingham on the Coronavirus Blog; however, it seems they may soon be able to receive the vaccine.

As adults nationwide continue to get vaccinated (I'm currently trying to secure an appointment for myself in New York!), all states have either broadened or are planning to expand eligibility to those aged 16 and older. This is fantastic news and suggests a brighter future ahead, but we must remember that we are not completely out of danger yet.

On Tuesday, Dr. Rochelle Walensky, director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, urged Americans to remain cautious despite the encouraging developments surrounding widespread vaccination, as reported by science journalist Dana G Smith on the Coronavirus Blog. “We are almost there but not quite yet,” Walensky emphasized. “I’m asking you to hold on just a little longer, to get vaccinated when possible so that all the people we cherish will still be with us when this pandemic concludes.”

I encourage you to do the same. With a touch more patience, we will reach our goal.

Stay safe and keep your spirits high,

Yasmin Tayag

Editor, Medium Coronavirus Blog

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Chapter 2: The Global Vaccine Challenge

A quick Q&A: Why can't all countries manufacture the vaccine?

The global distribution of vaccines has been alarmingly uneven, with wealthier nations receiving the majority of doses. According to a warning from an expert in the journal Nature, if this trend continues, the pandemic could extend for an additional seven years. One potential solution is for pharmaceutical companies to lift patent restrictions on vaccines, allowing developing nations to produce their own doses, as journalist Amy Martyn discussed in Future Human. Despite widespread support for this initiative, the pharmaceutical industry has resisted, claiming it would hinder innovation. Read more.

New on the Coronavirus Blog

CDC Director Issues Stark Warning of Impending Fourth Wave of Covid-19

Pregnant or Breastfeeding Women Have a High Antibody Response After Vaccination

How to Make Sense of the AstraZeneca Vaccine Data Drama

A few more insightful reads:

This Is What Life Looks Like After Vaccination

For Biden, a New Virus Dilemma: How to Handle a Looming Glut of Vaccine

Fully Vaccinated and Time to Party, If You Are 70

She’s Vaccinated. He Isn’t. Now What?

The Who - The Kids Are Alright - A reflection on youth and resilience in challenging times.

The Kids Are Alright - An exploration of optimism and hope among the younger generation during the pandemic.