January COVID and Vaccine Updates

Worldwide COVID cases are currently more than 93.6 million — with more than 2 million associated deaths according to John Hopkins University; numbers are nearing the same as those lost in WWII. Even with help from the National Guard, LA County is suffering from space depletion to store the bodies of those lost to COVID.

2021 is projected to be even more difficult than last year, with the number of cases, hospitalizations, and deaths surpassing the record. Experts are saying “Pandemic Fatigue” is causing people to become lax with social distancing, masking, and other preventative measures.

A new strain has been discovered in Ohio — similar to the one found in the UK, though it seems to have originated here; scientists are unsure of how this will effect vaccine effectiveness especially with the recent attack on the Capitol which is suspected to bring a rise in cases due to a high volume of non-masking and not adhering to COVID protocols.

Vaccine effectiveness is also being questioned on how long protection will last, though studies show long-term protection, an exact length has not been determined. Outside of this though, those who were not in the bracket to receive the vaccine with the first batch (those under 65 and healthy with no medical conditions and non-healthcare or essential workers or first responders) are expected to be able to begin receiving the vaccine in early spring: late March-April. Distribution companies are working nonstop to quickly and efficiently manufacture the vaccine.

Those that are pregnant have been a concern for vaccine receival and were not included in the trials for the COVID vaccine. As of now, it is recommended that they talk with their obstetrician for concerns — experts warn that getting COVID may be worse during pregnancy than any side effects seen in the vaccine. Those who are breastfeeding, however, are not at any higher risk than a non-breastfeeding person as the vaccine cannot be found in the blood, and therefore not the milk.

For those who have had COVID — they are still encouraged to get vaccinated as natural immunity may wane over time and it is common to see cases of reinfection with the virus. It has been shown that getting vaccinated can actually increase immunity if someone has already had COVID.

Moderna vs. Pfizer

Overall, healthcare professionals have not shown a preference over either vaccine due to their similarities in both safety and effectiveness profiles. Researchers are currently looking at what may be causing the severe anaphylactic shock side effect and speculate that it may be PEG-2000 (polyethylene glycol). Moderna has shown signs that it may offer protection from asymptomatic disease, which could save many, though this has not yet been proven. It may be more common to see the Moderna vaccine in rural communities and smaller facilities due to its higher storing temperature compared to Pfizer’s, removing the need for special freezers to store the vaccine; which vaccine one receives will be largely dependent on where they live.

About Us

Here at HealthNeed Medical Urgent Care, our main goal is to provide an easy and friendly walk-in experience that will have you face to face with one of our many medical specialists within minutes of checking in and without an appointment. Our team of medical experts offers treatments anywhere from bandaging small scrapes and cuts to IVs. Come check out our offices that are open 365 days a year. We provide pediatric as well as senior medical care, with most health insurances accepted.

Queens Crossing
38–21 Main St, Suite 1A
Flushing, NY 11354

Wheelchair Accessible Entrance:
136–17 39th Ave, Suite 1A
Flushing, NY 11354

Phone: (718) 888–1808

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