COVID-19 Update: What convinced me to get vaccinated–A message from Dr. Monique Chism, Under Secretary for Education

Deciding to get vaccinated against COVID-19 – the reasons, the concerns, and the benefits – can be deeply personal. Dr. Monique Chism, Under Secretary for Education, recently sat down to share her vaccination story with us in this short video message. Please take a few minutes to learn why she was initially hesitant, what helped her decide that vaccination was the right choice, what happened after her doses, and how her confidence grew after becoming fully vaccinated.

To learn more about the topics referenced in or related to Dr. Chism’s vaccination story, visit these resources:

• Unmasked COVID-19 Town Hall Series: The Vaccine and the Black Community, video
  In collaboration with Ad Council, the NAACP provides an update on the spread of COVID-19 and the latest research on vaccines, therapies, and options. (NAACP, February 2021)
• Find a Vaccine Site or Call 1-800-232-0233 (TTY 888-720-7489), resource

Find a COVID-19 vaccine near you with just your zip code. Option to search by vaccine type.

• LyftUp Vaccine Access, resource
  Getting the vaccine starts with getting to the vaccine. The NAACP has partnered with Lyft to make sure you have a reliable ride when it is time for your appointment. 
• The Covid Vaccine Developed Super Quickly. Here’s Why It’s Still Safe, animated video

Today’s COVID-19 vaccines work in much the same way as early inoculations but are safer and more effective. It’s true that they were developed with historic speed — but only because they were built on decades of basic research that allowed us to deliver them in record time. (Fig. 1 by University of California, May 2021)

• Vaccines&US: Cultural Organizations for Community Health, resource
  This comprehensive website can give you the tools and background to discuss the vaccines and common vaccine-related concerns with your friends, family, and community.

Stay safe, be well, and get vaccinated,
The COVID-19 Response Team

Related posts:

COVID-19 Team Update: Vaccination Information COVID-19 Team Update: Reminder on Policies, Guidelines, and Resources COVID-19 Team Update: Vaccination Documentation is due Monday, Nov.8 COVID-19 Update: Policy Guidelines and Reminders