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Reflections

Vol. 19 No. 1 (2021)

Addressing COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy - healthcare workers and trainees must be equipped for discussions about vaccines

DOI
https://doi.org/10.26443/mjm.v19i1.834
Submitted
December 30, 2020
Published
2021-02-01

Abstract

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has challenged our world throughout the past year. As we end 2020 conversing with loved ones, the topic of COVID-19 vaccination is inevitable. Throughout the next year, our gradual return to a more familiar society will be influenced by vaccine compliance. It is therefore paramount that healthcare professionals and trainees are equipped with current knowledge to address the questions and concerns of our loved ones. The Holidays should be viewed as an opportunity to address misconceptions and questions. This brief review outlines some arguments for why a COVID-19 vaccine is necessary and clarifies some features of the current top vaccine candidates. By addressing the questions and concerns of our loved ones before they need to decide whether or not they will receive a COVID-19 vaccine, we lay the groundwork for them to make informed choices.

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