In 2020 it was the “word of the year,” and whether we liked it or not, that word was “Covid-19.” Everyone was talking about it, everyone had concerns and for the most part, everyone was downright fearful. It appears this year isn’t shaping up to be any different. Except, perhaps it is, and perhaps even in a more hopeful way. Covid-19 is still top of everyone’s mind but now, with the imminent arrival of a vaccine, everyone has changed from fear, to debating the merits of the vaccine and whether or not they’ll submit to having it administered. Seniors, here are just a few of the things you need to know about it in order to make an informed decision about whether doing so makes sense for you. With information changing daily however, we caution readers to ensure that when your turn actually arrives, you’ve checked all the latest updates!

 The Covid Vaccine and You – What Seniors need to know…..

Is the vaccine safe?

All of the research indicates that the Covid vaccine, regardless of which one is made available to you, is safe. Some have questioned how a vaccine, brought to market so quickly, can be safe and effective? The reality is, it reflects the efforts of a worldwide body of scientists, doctors, immunologists and others who have worked collectively, sharing information, in the interests of the greater good. As well, government regulatory bodies have “fast-tracked” scientific reviews and dedicated more resources to the usual review process, again in the interests of protecting the population. They have also worked with their international counterparts to review the scientific data. For these and many other reasons, it’s reasonable to assume the vaccine is safe. 

What about reactions? 

As with any medication, a very small percentage of people have experienced an adverse reaction to vaccine administration. To date, in all cases, those individuals had pre-existing allergies perhaps making them more susceptible. If you have a history of reaction to medications, vaccinations or even regular shots such as the flu shot – discuss your concerns with your family doctor first before receiving the Covid-19 vaccine. Everyone who receives the vaccine will be asked to stay at the dosage site for at least 15 minutes after receiving it to monitor for any unusual symptoms. It’s important to note that a mild fever, or some tenderness and/or mild swelling over the injection site aren’t unusual.

How much will it cost?

Canadian citizens will be provided the Covid-19 vaccine free of charge. Over the course of 2021, the vaccine will be made available to everyone living in Canada who wishes to receive it. The good news is that for many older Canadians, you will be near the front of the line! 

When could I receive the vaccine?

While the vaccines are being phased in, it’s anticipated by the end of 2021, every person who wants one will have one. In terms of our previous comment, seniors in some settings will be near the front of the line and that’s important because the long-term health impact of battling Covid-19 can be devastating and sadly, for some (particularly older Canadians) deadly. Here’s what we know about the rollout so far:

Priority High-Risk Groups will get the vaccine first. According to the government of Canada, these include:

  • residents and staff of shared living settings that provide care for seniors
  • adults 70 years of age and older, beginning with adults 80 years of age and older, and then decreasing the age limit by 5-year increments to age 70 years as supply becomes available
  • health care workers who have direct contact with patients, including those who work in health care settings and personal support workers
  • adults in Indigenous communities

As additional COVID-19 vaccine(s) and supplies become available, the following populations should be offered vaccinations:

  • health care workers not included in the initial rollout
  • residents and staff of all other shared living settings, such as homeless shelters, correctional facilities, and housing for migrant workers
  • essential workers who face additional risks to maintain services for the functioning of society

By now, we are all becoming reasonably well versed on the topic of Covid-19. We probably all like to think of ourselves as medical experts to some degree! With Covid-19 cases post-holiday season rapidly on the increase, it’s safe to say that the pandemic has not been eradicated as yet and that we have some time to go before it is. New variants are also a concern and with seniors overall being more susceptible to the disease and/or its complications, serious consideration must be given to having the vaccine administered. There are no indications at the moment that the Canadian government is considering making the vaccine mandatory for all citizens, but for seniors who want to know – it’s probably in your best interests to consider having the vaccine. Best of all, like we said at the outset – the good news is you’ll be the near the front of the line! 

With Sources https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/vaccination