The coronavirus vaccine was released in December after less than a year of development. We have three options for the vaccine: Monderna, Pfizer, and Johnson & Johnson. Now that we have several options for the coronavirus vaccine, many people all over the country have different opinions on it. Though scientific research exists, the vaccines are still somewhat controversial. 

“I feel like this is necessary for things to go back to normal or at least semi normal. I know a lot of people are concerned about the effects of it but I think that comes with every vaccine and trial and error is just part of it,” says NLRHS senior Anna Beth Stuff. 

As far as side effects, some people experience swelling and muscle aches after they get the vaccine. Others may experience flu-like symptoms for a day or two after receiving the vaccine. Still others don’t experience symptoms at all. While many schools, hospitals, and other essential work environments have started giving their employees the vaccine, there are still people who will not take the vaccine. Whether it be because of conspiracy theories or just because of how quickly it was created, only 10.32% of the U.S. population is fully vaccinated.

 Zoie Smallwood, a senior at NLRHS, says “Some of my peers agree to take it if it was offered to us, but some of my peers say it’s a hoax and they’re not too fond of it. It honestly depends on the type of person you are.” 

Despite the controversy, many of the elderly population throughout the country have been taking the vaccine in hopes of seeing their relatives regularly again. As for teens and nonessential workers, vaccinations will be available for public use around May 1, according to CNN. Currently, many states have made the vaccine eligible for teenagers 16 and older.