COVID-19 Education for African Students
9. Vaccination myths and worries
We know from talking to students that some of you are worried about accepting a COVID-19 vaccination.
These are a few of the concerns that were raised:
Africa gets vaccinations that haven’t passed safety checks in other countries.
Answer: All vaccinations offered through local health care systems have been approved as safe and effective by experts at the World Health Organisation. Some vaccinations are not available are they are difficult to use in low-income countries due to storage requirements.
COVID-19 Vaccinations have dangerous side effects.
Answer: Mild side effects such as sore arm, fever and headache are quite common but pass quickly. Serious side effects are extremely rare. They are much, much rarer than the serious side effects associated with the disease itself.
Only older people need to be vaccinated.
Answer: It’s true vaccination is prioritised for older adults and those with an additional health problem such as diabetes, heart disease or asthma. Vaccinating students can help to reduce the spread of COVID-19 and will reduce strain on health care systems as well as preventing serious illness in the small minority young adults who are vulnerable.
There is a lot of misinformation that is being passed around. If you are worried talk to your local health care provider or look at the WHO website for up to date and accurate information. https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/covid-19-vaccines/advice