1/6 Side effects of the vaccine are well described. Observing the healthcare workers receiving the vaccine, one particular side effect, not known to me before, stood out. The vaccine, it seems, can cause a lot of joy and hope. Good. It is needed. Many challenges still lie ahead.
2/6 Lebanon is still witnessing high Coved numbers, although less than before. However, the number of patients in ICU has been slowly rising. Deaths remain high. More than half of them is in the above 75 years category. This group needs to be vaccinated ASAP. Vaccines save lives.
3/6 The test positivity rate has also decreased, but not enough. It remains stubbornly above 15%. Yet, many are demanding more easing of restrictions. As we enter phase 2, more community interactions will likely result in an increase in Covid cases, but hospitals are still full.
4/6 Opening the schools will be particularly challenging. Earlier reports of low transmission in children were not correct. Without strict measures and blended learning, opening schools can result in increased community transmission. Are schools ready, or the internet connection?
5/6 If we are to vaccinate all of the eligible population over the coming 12 months, around 30,000 vaccine shots have to be administered daily. The start of the campaign was good. Now, we need to build momentum. No effort should be spared. Enough vaccines will arrive on time.
6/6 Even if vaccinated, risks remain. One can still catch the virus, though will not likely get sick, and infecting others is possible. Masks and distancing will remain the norm. True, the challenges are many, but the outlook is not bleak. The vaccine, and hope, are on our side.
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