What Comes Next with COVID?

Aya Alsabri 24’

COVID has been going on for about a year. A lot of people may wonder if there have been any vaccines. Personally, regardless of how restricting it can be, I have adapted to the changes really quickly. It honestly doesn't feel like 9-months have passed since the quarantine in March. With Thanksgiving coming up, I wondered if COVID cases are going to rise. It’s important to acknowledge that many people have made great sacrifices for the well-being of others as well as themselves and you should fulfill that role by following the guidelines and rules there may be.

Vaccine?

Moderna and Pfizer created vaccines that have proved 95% effective, while Oxford University’s vaccine is appearing to be between 70-90% effective. However, because Oxford's vaccine does not need to be stored in as cool temperatures as the other vaccines, and it is cheaper to purchase per dose, Oxford’s vaccine is a better option for countries who don’t have the resources to pay and store Pfizer's and Moderna’s vaccines. Moderna and Pfizer are in the process of trying to get their vaccines approved by the FDA. However, while these vaccines can be approved within the next two weeks, for many individuals who are not in the high risk COVID group, they most likely will not be getting a vaccine until March or April due to the long distribution process. However, we can only hope it is sooner. 

What About Schools?

As of November 18, 202 schools have shut down again in New York City. This has not been much of a surprise. It was more of a question about when, rather than if students were going to school. It can be frustrating to see that other non-essential places such as restaurants, barber shops, etc. are still open and are being put above student’s education. For some, learning in real life, with the presence of teachers and others, is much easier. However, adapting to remote school hasn’t been too difficult as it wasnt something new, not to say that it has not been frustrating. However, a recent announcement was made that starting December 7th, NYC elementary schools students would be returning to in-person school again with reduced hybrid learning -- this does not apply to high school and middle school students. 

We have learned to adapt quickly to our environment, and it’s important to not give up just yet. We are moving towards the finish line, and we still need to continue to come together as a whole community to push through this virus. It’s important not to put your wants and needs above someone else's health and well-being, so make sure you continue to wear a mask and stay home when you are told to.