The new era of genetic technology introduces therapies such as mRNA vaccination which has been in developmental stages since the 70’s and 80s. For generations scientists and medical experts recommend preventative therapies such as flu (flu shot), pneumonia, and even chicken pox. Since 2020, the Coronavirus escalates the moral complexities within vaccination development with risks and concerns for safety and efficacy, as well as accessibility for all, especially those who are vulnerable populations. A CNN news article explains how the Centers for Disease Control warns Covid-19 vaccines might not protect people who are immunocompromised and that populations are urged to take precautions as if not vaccinated. (CITE) According to the article, there are “potential reduced responses to Covid-19 vaccines”. The CDC did not advise (July 2021) to receive an additional shot but notes that it continues to evaluate benefits versus risks of getting an additional shot. Is there a need for the Sickle Cell community to receive booster shots? A Johns Hopkins study (June 2021) found that researchers suggesting extra shot may help increase antibody levels (CITE). The CDC suggests that body response to vaccines might be reduced for several groups. But what are the complications and how do we further our navigation process where complications from Covid arise? According to The Hill, “the real superstar” is that which is the process that is used to revolutionize future vaccines such as mRNA development at “pandemic speed”. (CITE) Dr. Carlos Del Rio, VP of Infectious Disease Society of America and Professor of Medicine at Emory University explains from his point of view how he hopes the process of approval can help save lives. Do we as a community understand the approval process? Defined as Emergency Use Authorization or EUA, “the timeframe to present evidence to the FDA on the ranking systems of safety and efficacy follow ups requests for permission to introduce biologic product into interstate commerce.” (CITE) A Biologic License Application is the process to submit this request to FDA. With lack of accessibility to global populations we weigh the risks of expedited approvals for vaccine distribution while scaling up manufacturing capacity. Some of the challenges right now that we must view a succinct lens of focus on include global availability with effectiveness of combatting the new variant. Three key viewpoints are that 1. People that are vaccinated are still contracting Covid, 2. Children are contracting at faster rates with increased hospitalization numbers, 3. The need for transparency in the CDC’s safety protocol confusion; Federal v. State mask mandate and the likelihood of increased gathering’s (retail trends, concerts) while schools are about to open. What are your thoughts, viewpoints as we enter this autumn season with a stronger more dangerous variant trace? How can we as a community leverage the resources around us to create trust in the process of making sure we’re staying safe getting our vaccines, yet protecting our bodies from any additional harm. Your constructive feedback is greatly appreciated:]
