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THREAD: This week I had my first dose of the COVID vaccine. I have even signed up for extra shifts as a vaccinator as I realise how important it is that as many people as possible are vaccinated. BAME populations have been adversely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic yet...(1/7)
...despite this it appears that there is a high refusal rate for the vaccine amongst these groups. On social media and in conversations with other people of colour I have heard a lot of misinformation about the vaccine so I am not surprised (2/7)
I have heard absurd theories ranging from the vaccine containing products from aborted foetuses to the vaccine programme being used to plant microchips in people akin to the 'mark of the beast' (for my non-Christian folk see Revelations!) (3/7)
Whilst I understand the reasons for your hesitancy and distrust given the poor track record in BAME healthcare, it is important that we don't spread misinformation and ensure we review the facts. (4/7)
The Pfizer vaccine does not contain any live virus (you can't get COVID from the vaccine) or any animal products (it is vegetarian/vegan friendly). The chance of any serious reaction to the vaccine is extremely low and...(5/7)
...the side effects are generally mild, similar to what you might expect from the flu vaccine (a sore arm, possibly low-grade fever, headache). The vaccine was given to more than 44,000 people in phase III trials (from 6 countries, inc. 9% Black, 28% Latinx/Hispanic) (6/7)
It has undergone all of the same approval processes as other drugs/vaccines. Please remember that your health and the health of your loved ones is important. When you are offered the vaccine please make the right decision (7/7)
