Battle of the Vaccines
In this corner, US drugmaker Moderna announced that its vaccine has proven to be 94.5 per cent effective in protecting people from the COVID-19 disease, according to an interim analysis.
This followed Pfizer and BioNTech’s statement last week in which it said early data for its candidate suggested it was 90 per cent effective at preventing the virus.
After 9 months of living in the new normal, this is very welcome news. The thoughts of a vaccine getting rolled out in spring 2021 warms my heart.
As a healthy 40-something, I don't expect to get it until the final round. Our elderly and those with underlying health issues should get it first. Then it's our frontline workers, such as those in health care and those working in long term care facilities. Then, the rest of the essentials, from firefighters to grocery store clerks. In other words, those who can't work from home.
Moderna's vaccine needs to be refrigerated, but Pfizer’s vaccine must be shipped and stored at -70 C. It can be stored for up to five days at standard refrigerator temperatures, or for up to 15 days in a thermal shipping box. Logistically, that's a bit of a nightmare (just like when one of your bills goes into collections).
If you're a gambler, don't hold on to that slot money, as that final sect of Canadians, which would include yours truly, should be vaccinated by the end of 2021. So hang in there... there's light at the end of the tunnel.
Fun fact time! Dolly Parton donated $1 million to coronavirus research at Vanderbilt University. More than seven months later, it's been revealed that the legendary performer's donation helped fund Moderna's Covid-19 vaccine. Is there anything this woman can't do?
