This week on the Minnesota Native News health report, the state health department explains why young people need to get vaccinated even if healthy. Reporter Dalton Walker explains in this week’s stories.
Young people need to get vaccinated, too. This includes healthy teens.
It’s simple if you’re eligible and able to get the shot, do it.
The Minnesota Health Department wants to inform young people across the state in a new PSA on vaccines and what teenagers should know. For some, you might already know the reasons to get vaccinated. For others, it could be new and valuable information.
PSA1 audio: Looking forward to going back to school in-person? Not having sports or other activities paused because of quarantine? Being able to hang out with family and friends? The COVID-19 vaccines are our way back to all of these things.
Across the United States, including Indian Country, young people tend to have the lowest vaccine rates. Remember, the coronavirus doesn’t discriminate and can be passed on by anyone, even healthy people.
Anyone 12 years and older can get vaccinated free of charge. Those under 18, parent or guardian permission is needed. If obstacles arise regarding permission, contact your local clinic and ask about their consent process.
Vaccines.gov is another helpful tool to find where vaccines are available near you.
PSA audio: Here are some fast facts.
- The COVID-19 vaccines are safe
- Just like for adults, they were studied in teens so we know they work and are safe
- The COVID-19 vaccine is free and you do not have to show an ID
- COVID-19 vaccines do not cause infertility
Roughly 3 million residents across Minnesota have gotten the vaccine. Health officials stress that it’s more important than ever to do your part and get vaccinated.
Remember, the quickest way to get back to life before the COVID-19 pandemic, is to get vaccinated.
In other news.
This week the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended pregnant people to get vaccinated. This includes those thinking about becoming pregnant and those breastfeeding.
The updated guidance comes as the highly transmissible delta variant spreads across the country causing severe harm to those unvaccinated. Vaccination rates for pregnant people are low and the CDC has seen a rise in pregnant people infected with the coronavirus in the past several weeks.
“The vaccines are safe and effective, and it has never been more urgent to increase vaccinations,” said CDC Director Dr. Rochelle Walensky.
New CDC safety data did not find an increased risk of miscarriage among vaccinated pregnant women who were part of the study.
For Minnesota Native News health report, I’m Dalton Walker
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