However, as for anything new, scams, rumors, and theories about COVID-19 vaccines are already circulated.
If you are a person that is really into conspiracy and completely anti-government then this info will not help you. For people who are not, here are some things that can help you understand things better.
You can stop the spread of rumors by doing three basic things:
1. Search for credible sources of knowledge.
2. Share information from credible sources.
3. Advise others about the risks of passing on knowledge from inaccurate sources.
Seek information from official safety and health departments to find verifiable facts. Access the CDC’s COVID-19 website for more information. Check the social media and online pages of your state and federal authorities, as well as emergency management and health departments, for accurate information relevant to your region.
Look for a blue checked badge next to the username on social media. This means that it is a genuine account.
Keep yourself up to date
For the most up-to-date public health information on Coronavirus, go to the CDC COVID-19 site.
The United States Department of Justice and the Federal Trade Commission also have materials and information on how to identify and stop the new scams.
Vaccinations
To clear the air, we’ve busted some vaccine rumors.
Rumor: Is it true you have to pay for vaccines? Is it possible to buy them online?
Truth: The vaccine is provided at no cost by the federal government to everyone living in the US.
Still, your vaccine provider can charge an administration fee to your insurance company, Medicare or Medicaid.
Vaccines are not available for purchase online.
You must not pay anyone to add your name to the list to get vaccinated. You must be careful of someone who offers help but then demands personal information or money. COVID-19 vaccinations are only available at approved vaccination clinics and must be administered by qualified medical staff. For advice about who should be vaccinated first, go to the CDC website.
Rumor: Is it possible to get COVID-19 from vaccines?
Fact: No, neither of the COVID-19 vaccines currently on the market contain the live virus, meaning you won’t catch the disease or the virus from it.
Since getting a vaccine, you may develop signs such as fever, which is natural and shows that the immune system is learning to combat the virus. To know much more details regarding COVID-19 vaccines, go to the CDC’s COVID-19 site.
Rumor: Are the vaccines useless? Do they are unable to prevent COVID-19?
Fact: According to intensive clinical trials, the vaccines presently administrated in the United States is much more than 90% successful in preventing COVID-19. Vaccines are critical tools to end this pandemic.
Furthermore, the vaccine will help you in fighting against COVID-19 even if you get it. More and more people get vaccinated, the nearest we will be protecting most people from COVID-19.
Whenever the vaccine becomes available, have it.
Rumor: Should I keep wearing a mask and maintain a social distance if I’ve been vaccinated?
Fact: Even if you’ve been vaccinated, you may get COVID-19 and infect others who haven’t.
You must keep following the CDC’s guidelines for protecting yourself as well as others till professionals understand all about how COVID-19 vaccines perform in actual life.
Rumor: It’s fine if I post a photo of my COVID-19 vaccination card on social platforms.
Fact: Sharing your vaccination card on social networking sites is risky because it might lead to identity theft.
A vaccination card contains data such as your full name, birth date, and the location and date of your vaccination. You could be giving out crucial data to someone who might use this for identity theft if you share it on a social site.
You can share the vaccine sticker picture if you are too excited about getting vaccinated. But don’t share a vaccination card.
Rumor: I received a free package of masks (or hand sanitizer, or some other item) that I had not ordered. That’s not a big deal because it didn’t charge me anything.
Fact: The FTC (Federal Trade Commission) alerts that although this scam seems to be harmless, it is not.
Identity thieves could have developed an account or took control over your account on online shopping websites if a package of apparently “free” merchandise appears at your door. They can also build new accounts using your address. Allowing them to post a vast amount of reviews that seem to be authentic.
Furthermore, it indicates that they also have access to your sensitive personal data. Keep a check on your online shopping accounts. If you find anything unusual, report it immediately to the site and the FTC, and reset your password quickly. CWP
References
https://www.fema.gov/disasters/coronavirus