A perspective on discussing COVID-19 vaccines: Efficacy and adverse effects

[摘要] Not a day goes by in clinic without discussions with patients about COVID-19 vaccines. They are glad that they received their vaccinations but want to know if they can safely attend family gatherings over the upcoming holidays. And those who are taking immunosuppressive drugs may have heard that the medications may blunt their response to the vaccine. I emphasize with patients that the vaccines are effective overall in protecting them from becoming ill with COVID and requiring hospitalization. But because I can’t guarantee or accurately measure the degree of protection my immunosuppressed patients achieve after vaccination, I emphasize the need to exercise common sense: to mask when in groups indoors, and to consider asking visitors and family members to get a rapid COVID test the day before any gathering.

[学科分类] 卫生学