By now you may have heard that drug company Pfizer has developed a potential COVID-19 vaccine that’s 90% effective.
It’s a truly remarkable feat that may lead you to jump for joy.
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But don’t jump too high just yet. The study still needs to be peer-reviewed and examined by regulating bodies. That said, it is a very exciting and encouraging press release!
The trial included 44,000 individuals, of which 94 contracted COVID-19. Of those 94, only nine had undergone the full two-shot dosage. At the rate things are going, it stands to reason the vaccine would be available by the end of the year.
Perfect timing considering the world is breaking COVID-19 records at a daily rate.
But does that mean that you should abandon your efforts of building a stronger immune system or abandon current COVID-19 risk reduction protocols?
It certainly does not.
In fact, you might want to use it as motivation to double down on your efforts. Following the current protocols of wearing a mask, social distancing, and regular handwashing can all help you stay healthy.
As can focusing on overall immune strength. Continuing to stay active, eat anti-inflammatory foods, and getting adequate nutrition can all help your immune system beef up to help you absorb any light side effects of the vaccine, while encouraging overall health.
Not to worry, though. Thus far—and make no mistake, more work needs to be done—there are only minor side effects associated with the vaccine. They appear similar to the reaction some experience following a flu shot: slight fatigue, chills, and mild fever.
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Keeping your immune system ticking, particularly through the fall and winter, can also help you stave off a cold and flu. At the very least, it may help reduce the duration and severity of seasonal illness.
Some nutrients to pay added attention to this season include vitamin C, zinc, and vitamin D. In some cases, it may even be worth supplementing.
This week’s news suggests there could be light at the end of the tunnel. But we’re not there yet. Keep working towards greater immune strength to reduce your risk of illness and enhance your body’s ability to fight infection.
Mohan Garikiparithi got his degree in medicine from Osmania University (University of Health Sciences). He practiced clinical medicine for over a decade before he shifted his focus to the field of health communications. During his active practice he served as the head of the Dept. of Microbiology in a diagnostic centre in India. On a three-year communications program in Germany, Mohan developed a keen interest in German Medicine (Homoeopathy), and other alternative systems of medicine. He now advocates treating different medical conditions without the use of traditional drugs. An ardent squash player, Mohan believes in the importance of fitness and wellness.
