In the past, you have studied enzymes and proteins which are essential to maintaining homeostasis in all living organisms. In this discussion, we will be examining the development of three different vaccines for Covid-19, all of which block spike proteins , also known as antigens, on the surface of the virus. These vaccines also stimulate our body’s immune system to develop a protein called an antibody, to provide long-lasting protection from the virus. The immune system is one of the many different body systems that will have been exploring. It is important that we examine the difference between vaccine-induced herd immunity and natural herd immunity. Finally, we will question and challenge Sweden’s controversial attempt to establish Covid -19 natural herd immunity.
product that stimulates a person’s immune system to produce immunity to a specific disease, protecting the person from that disease.
Watch this video about herd immunity and how it works to attempt to minimize the spread of infectious disease.
Watch this video about Sweden’s attempt to create natural herd immunity without vaccination.
Watch this video about the three different approaches to the development of a Covid- 19 vaccine.
What are your thoughts about Sweden’s approach to using natural herd immunity prior to the use of an approved vaccine? Why did the WHO (World Health Organization) disapprove of Sweden’s approach? How can such a high death rate be ethically justified?
There are 3 different approaches to the development of a Covid -19 vaccine but each approach targets the spike protein on the virus. Biotech/Pfizer is the first to develop a vaccine with a 90% effective rate. What do you believe are some of the risks and benefits associated with vaccines? Also, discuss some of the logistic difficulties of immunization.
Once the Pfizer vaccine receives emergency approval from the CDC (Note: approved summer 2021), there will be a huge disparity between supply and demand. Which groups of individuals should receive priority vaccine administration and why?
Now that the vaccine is available, will you get the vaccine or not? Please explain the justification behind your decision. This discussion is not about the mandate or politics. Keep to the biology and scientific facts presented as a basis for your discussion.
After reading over the “Cliff Notes” from the VRBPAC committee, what are the three facts that were presented/discussed that surprised or stood out to you that you didn’t know? Share your detailed thoughts along with any questions you would ask the committee if you were present. Would any of this information sway your decision one way another in seeking a vaccine for your child? Again, this discussion is not about the mandate or politics. Keep to the biology and scientific facts presented as a basis for your discussion.
