2020 was a year to never be forgotten. We were locked in, estranged and certainly helpless. The global COVID-19 pandemic came into our lives with immediate radical change.
For a long time — even to this day — we have not met with certain family and friends and we continue to use masks so much so they’re almost becoming a part of our bodies.
Certainly, 2020 put us to the test, it was dramatic and full of uncertainty, but 2021 does not have to be that way. Today, we are already in mid-February and I welcome 2021 with open arms and hope.
On Dec. 14, the distribution of vaccines began and 16.5 million doses were given by the time of President Joe Biden’s inauguration.
It is understandable that such a number is not encouraging. The U.S. has a population of about 328 million people. There is a long way until every single one has its vaccine, but instead of showing discouragement, we should fill ourselves with patience and hope that at least the vaccine is being delivered. Sooner or later, we will have our doses.
Biden stated that, in his first 100 days in office, he has the goal of administering 100 million doses. Likewise, this new administration seeks safe alternatives when vaccinating the American people.
So far, there are only two approved vaccines: the Pfizer and the Moderna. However, the Johnson and Johnson vaccine is awaiting FDA approval. If approved, the U.S. government has already ordered 100 million doses of it. This number of vaccines would add to the other 200 million doses that the American government plans to buy from Pfizer and Moderna.
Johnson & Johnson board member Mark McClellan said on Jan. 29 in an interview with CNBC that, “Assuming all of the close review of the J&J data all pans out, we’re going to have the capacity between Moderna, Pfizer, J&J, to have enough vaccines available by June for the entire US adult population.”
The FDA has scheduled a public meeting of its Vaccines and Related Biological Products Advisory Committee for Feb. 26 with the purpose of looking at the data of the vaccine and making a decision regarding its authorization. Such announcements are great news. They give us hope.
2021 can become a pivotal moment in the fight against coronavirus. Let’s continue to care for ourselves and others and protect each other as it is a fight of all.
