I think that in the interest of saving lives and trying to stop the spread of Covid, not as much testing of the vaccine was done as is usual. It is unfortunate that we have seen PN and inflammatory flares, as well as some other non-lethal side effects, but the vaccine has definitely slowed both infections and deaths.

I watched the virus' effects on my 30-40 something daughters, as well as serious after-effects for one of them. As an individual at high risk for serious illness from Covid, as well as someone itching to resume life, I made the decision to be vaccinated, knowing all vaccines have a risk of inflammatory response for me. (I reacted to both shingles and flu vaccines with bouts of inflammation.) I did have an inflammatory reaction, which I had to deal with for a little over 2 months, but I feel free now to proceed safely with my life, still taking reasonable precautions. Also, repeated assurances that, even if infected after vaccination, the disease would be much milder, swayed my decision. Also, adding myself to the ranks of vaccinated helps limit the hosts for the Covid virus and variants.

Each of us must make our own decisions, for me the desire to safely resume life outside of a tiny bubble made the risk worthwhile.

Sue