On Nov. 9, Pfizer and BioNTech  released their early study results which indicated that their COVID-19 vaccine is 90 percent effective at preventing people from developing the COVID-19 disease.

Massachusetts-based company, Moderna, had continued to deliver strong efficacy results, with an effectiveness of 94 percent in the main analysis of their key study. Pfizer, BioNTech as well as Moderna’s effectiveness of their COVID-19 vaccine is encouraging and promising; however, there is still a long way to go before a vaccine will be widely available.

As soon as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approves of the COVID-19 vaccines, it will first be given to the frontline health care workers, nursing home residents and employees, due to the fact that these workers and residents are at the highest risk for COVID-19.

When the FDA authorizes the use of one or more COVID-19 vaccines, there will be a limited supply and unfortunately not everyone will be able to get vaccinated right away. It is expected that supplies of the COVID-19 vaccines will increase over time and all adults should be able to get vaccinated later in 2021.

The COVID-19 vaccine will not be available to young children until more studies are completed. While the vaccine has arrived, the CDC guidelines continue to encourage all Americans to wear masks and to socially distance, so as to prevent further spread of this virus.