The reasons to get vaccinated are many, varied

Good news! A new year has come and with it the beginning of widespread vaccination against COVID-19. The two vaccines currently used in the U.S. are 95% effective after both doses and the few who may still get infected have significantly milder illness avoiding hospitalization. A tiny percentage may have allergic reactions, but serious reactions are exceedingly rare.

But it will take time to get everyone vaccinated and achieve the full potential of herd immunity to defeat this pandemic. For now, following public health guidelines will still save more lives.  We all must be consistently wearing masks in public, distancing from others, and washing our hands regularly. This is such a small personal sacrifice which can be lifesaving for our neighbors.

Let me be clear. The COVID-19 vaccines are nearly 100% effective against serious illness from this virus. This is ridiculously encouraging. People who have received both doses of the vaccine will be able to safely do things that unvaccinated people cannot – like having meals together and hugging their grandchildren – without worrying about spreading infection.

Following Panhandle Health District guidelines, the vaccine is now available at Bonner General Health and some medical clinics. Check their websites for more information on how to get yours.

Get vaccinated for your community. Get it to keep businesses open. Get it to protect your family and your grandma. Get vaccinated to save every life possible. And then let us celebrate!

SCOTT DUNN, M.D.

Sandpoint