Coronavirus Update for March 2021 - Understanding the Vaccines
There are a ton of questions about the Coronavirus and what's going on with the virus and the vaccines in the City of Detroit and in Michigan, so I try to answer as many of those questions as I can in this video.
Low Rate of Pediatric Flu Deaths This Year
Did you know that there's only been 1 pediatric flu death this entire flu season? That's down from 150 to 200 pediatric flu deaths annually and it is likely attributed to mask wearing, physical distancing, and children being out of school.
Number of Coronavirus Cases in Michigan are on the Decline
In the State of Michigan, there have only been 1,400 new cases each day on average over the last 7 days, which is tremendous improvement from 9,000 cases each day in late November and early December 2020.
Coronavirus Death Toll in Michigan Hits a Grim Milestone
That being said, 15,610 Michigan residents have died from the coronavirus. To put that into perspective, there are 15,570 residents in Traverse City and 15,498 residents in Grosse Pointe Woods. To say that the coronavirus death toll is staggering is an understatement.
Coronavirus Vaccine Distribution in the State of Michigan
Fortunately, the vaccine doses are being distributed efficiently here in the State of Michigan and in the City of Detroit. 2.48 million vaccines have been given state-wide, and 8.92% of Michigan residents or 891,000 people have received 2 doses. Michigan ranks 9th in number of vaccines distributed nationally, and that's great.
How Does the mRNA Vaccine Work?
Next up, the Pfizer and Moderna Coronavirus Vaccine are made by injecting mRNA into your body, and that mRNA makes a spike protein which elicits an immune response from your body. People often think that the mRNA vaccine changes your DNA, but it doesn't.
Who is Eligible for the Coronavirus Vaccine in the City of Detroit?
Many more people are eligible for getting the coronavirus vaccine as time goes on. In Detroit, if your 50 or older with a pre-existing condition, you're eligible. If you're a food service worker, you're eligible. If you're a member of the clergy, a factory worker, a janitor, or a teacher, you're eligible.
You can see full details on who is eligible by going to this link or call 313-230-0505 Monday-Friday from 9 am until 6 pm to schedule an appointment.
The Johnson and Johnson Vaccine
The Johnson and Johnson vaccine is now available - it only requires one dose and it's a adenovirus vaccine, which means the vaccine is packaged in a virus vector. The J&J vaccine is 85% effective agains severe disease and 100% effective against hospitalization, and you only need one shot. If you're offered any of the available vaccines, get the shot, protect yourself, and protect your loved ones.
Stay safe and healthy,
- Dr. Paul Thomas with Plum Health DPC in Detroit, MI