The coronavirus vaccine is gaining more and more popularity as people get it, and now everyone 12 and up are eligible to be vaccinated. However, a new variant of this deadly virus has started to spread like wildfire, and the cases of COVID have started to rise once again. In early July, the Delta variant was discovered and caused a new wave of coronavirus cases. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), even vaccinated individuals can get the virus, show mild to severe symptoms, and are contagious. Since then, safety measures have become stricter all over the country and everyone needs to be super careful while cases continue to climb.

It is important to get vaccinated because you have a smaller chance of getting the virus. This is because the Delta variant is much worse than the original virus, infecting many more people. As of now, getting the vaccine is the most useful protection against the virus. The CDC states that getting the vaccine is a crucial tool in real world settings. The different vaccine options that are FDA-approved are Pfizer (ages 12+), Moderna (ages 18+), and Johnson & Johnson (ages 18+). Each vaccine requires 1-2 doses depending on which vaccine you choose, but all have a lasting effect on your immune system.

Many of my friends and family are getting vaccinated. One of my good friends, Riyana, who is vaccinated, said: “I believe that kids that meet the requirements for receiving the vaccine should get it. That way they can protect themselves and the people around them.” When she received the second dose of the vaccine, I asked if she experienced any side effects. She explained that her arm hurt and felt sick for a little bit, but felt fine shortly after, both of which are common side effects.

“I feel that kids should take extra precautions when it comes to school, and that everyone should be masked when in congested public places,” said Riyana. According to the CDC, COVID-19 spreads when an infected person breathes out droplets which contain the virus. People, including children older than two, should wear a mask in indoor public places. This also applies to people even if they are fully vaccinated, especially in areas with substantial or high transmission.

Scientists have found all three types of COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective. So far, studies have shown that these vaccines are working well and helping to protect people. The world is in a unique moment in time, and we’ll continue to fight the virus with scientific evidence, as vaccines are the best form of protection.