What’s the news: With one in four Americans reportedly hesitant to get the safe and effective vaccines that have been authorized by the independent scientists at the Food and Drug Administration, the AMA joined the national organizations representing nurses and hospitals to release a public service announcement (PSA) urging the American public to get the COVID-19 vaccination when it is their turn.
“Vaccinations are safe, effective, prevent illness and save lives,” said AMA President Susan R. Bailey, MD. “Protect yourself and your loved ones by getting vaccinated, and play a role in this monumental effort that will help us return to normal. Whether enough people get the COVID-19 vaccine decides our future and the future toll of the virus—so be ready to do your part.”
The PSA—also available in Spanish and released jointly by the AMA, American Hospital Association and American Nurses Association (ANA)—stresses the safety and efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines. The effort continues the work the three associations have done over the past year to increase public acceptance of the essential actions to curb the spread of COVID-19, which also include: wearing a mask, practicing physical distancing and washing hands frequently.
Learn more about how #ThisIsOurShot elevates physicians’ voices in support of vaccines.
Why it’s important: Twenty-seven percent of those surveyed by the Kaiser Family Foundation in December said they probably would not, or definitely would not, get a COVID-19 vaccine deemed safe by scientists and offered at no charge. Among those most reluctant to get vaccinated are:
- Republicans—42%.
- People 30–49 years old—36%.
- Rural residents—35%.
- Black adults—35%.
- Essential workers—33%.
- Health workers—29%.
At this article’s deadline, COVID-19 had killed more than 450,000 Americans, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
“I urge everyone to thoughtfully consider getting vaccinated when it is their turn,” said ANA President Ernest J. Grant, PhD, RN. “If you have questions, reach out to a nurse, physician or health care professional for answers and credible information. Try to connect with someone you know and trust who has received a COVID-19 vaccine and ask them about their experience to help you make an informed decision.
“The mass distribution and administration of COVID-19 vaccines marks a critical turning point in this pandemic,” Grant added. “Vaccination will help protect us from this deadly virus so we can get back to the people, the hobbies and the activities that we all cherish and miss.”
Explore these 10 tips for talking with patients about COVID-19 vaccination.
Learn more: The AMA recognizes the critical importance of scientific integrity, transparency and public trust in the fight to contain the global spread of COVID-19 and plan for the authorization, distribution and administration of COVID-19 vaccines. Stay updated with the AMA on COVID-19 and vaccine development.
Find out how you can help spread the message to #MaskUp to stop the spread of COVID-19.
