In Many Cases, Prevention Is the Best Cure
By Tom Herrin
As the entire world watches and waits, we have been all but consumed by the virus that has swept across the globe. No matter where it may have had its origins, its effects have been devastating. It seemed that no group has been exempt from the possibility of serious illness or death. The best minds worldwide have been put to task in the work of developing treatments and/or vaccines. As these vaccine candidates have been unveiled with some measures of success, hope has been renewed. The availability of this to frontline workers and those most vulnerable is here. The next step, in the coming months, will be much more widespread availability to the general public. This poses both opportunities and challenges.
Have You Been Looking Forward to It?
Vaccines have a mixed history when it comes to success. The mere fact that one was ever developed was a minor miracle. The smallpox vaccine was a major accomplishment. It was generally successful in virtually eliminating a disease that had wreaked havoc in many places. On the basis of this success, many researchers set about looking for others. The vaccine for tetanus vastly improved survival rate for those wounded in combat. It has also had many other practical uses. Many diseases once considered to be childhood problems are no longer feared. The introduction of a vaccine for polio saved countless individuals from a crippling disease.
Are You Fearful?
Many people have great reservations about taking a vaccine. Some have had reactions in the past that have ranged from fever and muscle weakness to problems with hearing and seizures. In some cases, vaccines have been believed to have caused people to have the illness that are meant to prevent it. Some people simply fear taking something into their bodies that is foreign.
Decisions Require Thought
One thing for certain is that none of us should wait until the day the vaccine is offered before deciding. Our health is important to all of us, and we want to make the best decision possible. A vaccine may be the best insurance possible against this current virus. Even if we take it, we may want to think about just what part of the line we wish to be. Allowing a few ahead of us may provide more comfort for some. Either way, it will be a big decision.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Austin, Tex.