Health Care Professionals See Light At End Of Tunnel But Stress COVID Fight Continues

Vaccine distribution is underway in Oklahoma City, but the battle with COVID-19 is not won yet.

Members of the Healthier Oklahoma Coalition said they see the light at the end of the tunnel with the emergency approval of the Pfizer vaccine, but they still stress that having a new vaccine doesn't mean the virus is gone.

Health care professionals said the Pfizer vaccine is 95% effective, leaving a small chance you could still get the virus. However, the vaccine will help fight off the virus and prevent severe cases.

Frontline workers in at least five healthcare sites in Oklahoma have already received the vaccines. Those in the coalition said this is important for hospitals dealing with hospitalization and staffing issues.

“You may in the general population come in contact with someone with COVID twice a day, but we’re seeing dozens a day and we’re in close contact with it,” said Jason Benn with Integris SW Medical Center.

Members of the coalition said it is still important to practice the three Ws: wear a mask, wash your hands and watch your distance.