On December 11, 2020, the first COVID-19 vaccine was released, recently becoming available for all that are 12 years old or older.  

We have come a long way since then. However, the debate still stands: should we take the vaccine?

“I don’t think it should be mandated,” Shreya Gharge said. “Everyone does have a choice over their body.”

When asked the question, many students agreed that there should be a choice.

“I think that’s how America works,” Erik Barr said. “You get your personal opinion on everything.” 

One and a half years into the pandemic, many students are looking to dissipate the pandemic with the vaccine.

“By getting it, we can help stop and manage the spread of COVID,” Hannah Childress said. 

People with certain health conditions, such as diabetes and smoker lungs, are at higher risk from COVID-19 than most.

“I have a dad that’s an ex-smoker,” sophomore El Law said. “If he got COVID he would also have to be put on a respirator because his lungs are so poor.”

On August 23rd of this year, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the Pfizer vaccine; however, many people are still cautious over whether or not the vaccine is safe.  

“We think as more things come out,” Barr said. “and we make sure it’s 100% safe, then I’ll take it.”

Pfizer is only one of the many COVID-19 vaccines. In the United States, Johnson & Johnson and Moderna are authorized for those who are 18 or older. 

“There are so many versions,” Shreya Gharge said. “They might be allergic to one, but they are not allergic to the other”

In the end, we have the resources. It is up to us to decide what to do with it.

“I’m all for people having a choice for their bodies,” Law said. “But I feel when it comes to something that is within the case of people dying because of it, it might be a good sign to take the vaccine.”

With all this in mind, what do you think, Lions? Will you take the vaccine?