By: Zion Lee
For more than a year, the global COVID-19 pandemic has led to millions of people contracting the virus, becoming ill, and in some cases, dying. However, thanks to modern medicine, there are currently three types of COVID-19 vaccines that are authorized for large-scale clinical trials in the United States. These vaccines help the recipients’ bodies develop immunity to the virus without having to catch the illness. The mRNA vaccines, protein subunit vaccines, and vector vaccines help give our bodies the ability to recognize the virus if COVID-19 is ever contracted. It is important to note that none of the vaccines can give you COVID-19, but instead they help your immune system in the event that you should ever get COVID-19.
Governor Phil Murphy announced that those experiencing homelessness, in addition to those who are currently in domestic violence and homeless shelters, are eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine on March 15th, which since has past. Soon after, Governor Phil Murphy announced that everyone over the age of 16 are eligible to be vaccinated. The COVID-19 vaccine does not cost the recipient any money and will not require individuals to pay any coinsurance, deductibles, or copay. In fact, the vaccine is available regardless of whether or not you possess health insurance coverage or not. Some places that are offering vaccination appointments are Capital Health System- Hopewell, CURE Arena Trenton, Henry J Austin Health Center, Hunterdon Family & Sports Medicine at Hopewell Valley, Mercer County Community College, Rite Aid in Trenton, Riverside Urgent Care of Ewing, Robert Wood Johnson Hamilton, ShopRite Hamilton, and ShopRite Pennington. After being vaccinated, your immune system will be prepared to fight the virus. However, even after being vaccinated, The Streetlight suggests that everyone continues to exercise caution and follow CDC guidelines.
The CDC has more information regarding how the vaccine works if you’re interested.
Vaccine Registration Questions? The New Jersey COVID-19 Vaccine Call Center operates daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. at 855-568-0545