After nine long months of battling the pandemic, the light at the end of the tunnel is getting brighter, and COVID-19 vaccines are getting closer to mass production. Because of this, the health industry expects to receive a high demand for COVID-19 shots soon.
The first news about the vaccine broke out in early November, and then a few more contenders followed suit weeks later. In early December, the UK was the first to facilitate mass vaccination to the public while the rest of the world watched and waited for their turn.
But how is the healthcare sector going to handle the demand for the vaccine? Who gets the first shots?
Eyeing different vaccines
In early November, the first three drugmakers announced the efficiency and safety of their vaccines. Pfizer and BioNTech and Moderna are the most prominent names that will massively reverse uncertainty early next year for most countries all over the world.
Although many anti-vaccine individuals were wary about taking the drug, according to the Pew Research Center, by the end of November, 60% of Americans expressed their desire to get vaccinated for the coronavirus. Besides that, advocacy groups, such as home-based healthcare groups and community health centers, are also starting to express their hopes and desire to have their sector prioritized due to the scarcity of doses during the first wave.
Demand will keep rising
Even if some people are still unsure about getting the vaccine, this will most likely recede once the vaccines are approved for circulation. In fact, review requests for emergency authorization have been submitted for Moderna and other vaccine contenders, while Pfizer and BioNTech are already now being distributed to the public.
Healthcare industry professionals predict that the demand for the COVID-19 vaccine will be similar to the vaccine issue in 2004, wherein there was a severe shortage of flu shots. During that time, many experienced long lines of rationed doses, and there were debates over distribution. Since this is a highly desired vaccine, the same might happen again.
Getting the vaccine
Many medical professionals are aware the vaccine supplies will be a bit tight, and because of this, priority will be given to the 21 million healthcare workers in the US. Next on the priority list are the 3 million nursing home staff and residents. The hierarchy about who’s next in line for the vaccine is still being discussed and may likely include an emotional debate.
As per the CDC, vulnerable groups are next in line for the vaccine, including essential workers and elders over 65.
Proof of vaccination
Once the demand for the vaccine eases, and there are more supplies for the public, a COVID vaccination will most likely be a requirement for proof of travel, work, and leisure.
Citizens will most likely see immunity passports being presented in trains, airplanes, buses, and any form of public transportation. Besides that, entering hospitals and entertainment facilities might require immunity passports as well.
Conclusion
Almost a year into the pandemic, getting good news is finally coming in, and the vaccines are slowly going to be rolled out to the public. However, many people will still have to be a bit more patient as the need for vaccines rises, and priority has been given to the healthcare industry and vulnerable and high-risk individuals. Despite the demand, many are still hoping to get a chance to receive the dose immediately, even those who were first wary about vaccines.
Do you want to know the latest news and updates in the health industry? Dose of Healthcare got you covered. We provide healthcare news, articles, and resources for medical professionals. Check out more of our articles and subscribe to our newsletter today!
