Hello esteemed members, friends, and supporters of the CAAAI, welcome to the month of April, the month we all look forward to fresh new beginnings, blooming flowers, the spring season, Easter, and longer daylight hours each and every day. As promised, I plan to reach out to you every month with a message that hopefully will keep us together and informed. This month, I would like to talk a little about what is foremost in the minds of everyone, and that is the Coronavirus Vaccine. As you know, there has been much talk about vaccine efficacy, vaccine availability, slow registrations and long lines, and perhaps the fear of something negative happening to us as a result of taking the vaccine. I understand. I also understand that members have lost family and friends to this ‘covid beast’ that stole them away from us; may their memories be always with us and give us the strength to carry on for them.
You are not alone, many people express fear of taking the vaccine, and some have bluntly refused to take it; but you and I can remember when we attended school in Guyana, we willingly or unwillingly took the polio vaccine, yellow fever, malaria, chicken pox, and other vaccines, and by the grace of our God who protected us, we grew up and we are still here. I am also pleased to let you know that most if not all your CAAAI Executive Board Members have had one or both vaccines, and we are doing very well with no problems or severe after effects. Of course, every circumstance is different, and you should get the advice of your medical doctor on this matter.
Recently, I came across several articles on CDC.org that provided answers to many questions you may have about the covid vaccine’s safety. I was satisfied with the answer to my question that stated, “A federal study published…found that the vaccines developed by both Moderna and Pfizer are effective at preventing infection of the coronavirus in people with the shots, suggesting transmission is rare [after the shots]….” Further, I know how proud you are to know that Guyanese born Dr. Vidia Roopchand is one of the top scientists on Pfizer’s Covid Vaccine development board, and has assured the public that all safety standards were observed during the development of this BNT162b2 vaccine.
My humble opinion to members and their families is not to be afraid of the vaccine, but take it to further protect yourselves and those around you who you love. Remember after vaccination to continue wearing your masks, sanitize your hands frequently, and social-distance in accordance with CDC regulations. The CAAAI is also excited to hear that our brothers and sisters in Guyana and the Caribbean are getting vaccinated as well. As always, please let’s hear from you and let us know your thoughts. Until my next message in May, continue to be safe and love and protect each other.
Respectfully yours,
Dr. Aubrey F. Bentham
President - CAAAI
