Nadra's coronavirus vaccine story and experience
Research and hope to see family and friends encouraged Nadra’s support of the Covid-19 vaccines
Coronavirus lockdown has been difficult for a young person like Nadra, but she shares her hopes for the vaccine and the future and what helped her manage her worries.
How has your life changed during the pandemic?
Since March 2020, life has changed drastically for Nadra.
She says the lockdown has taken a toll on everyone, but as a young person you sometimes feel robbed of this promised youth.
"I’m a very community orientated person. Before the lockdown I used to meet my friends and family on a regular basis, now I’m just zooming, skyping, calling and social media...ing, which is not bad, but definitely not the same either."
What are your hopes for the vaccines?
Her hopes for the Covid-19 vaccines include reduced hospital admissions, people feeling more protected, and that the vaccine works for all individuals.
"Having the vaccine would make me feel more secure, and the possibility of going back to normality brings a lot of joy to me."
Do you have any concerns?
"I do still have small worries around possible side effects. I think it’s just the fear of the unknown. I’m definitely for vaccines and have benefited from them my whole life - I think that’s important to remember."
Nadra acknowledges that her vaccine worries are understandable and talking to others who she feels comfortable helps her, particularly those who have had the vaccine.
I know of someone who has had it; they seemed much more smiley and happy within themselves, which as a result decreased my anxiousness.
She mentions the importance of doing her own research, but acknowledges that there is a lot of information out there. She suggests that each piece of information should be looked at critically, for example if it is from a scientific source.
However, family opinions are also important to her: ‘‘Personally, opinions of family members also matter to me. They offer a pillar of support - I trust them, they know me, so what they say matters’’.
What hopes do you have for the future?
Nadra hopes that things go back to normal. ‘‘I’ve only met some of my work colleagues through zoom. I’m excited to see all their lovely faces in real life. I really miss travelling to work too and socialising in general’’.
What would you share with others?
"Think about the situation we are in right now, look at the vaccine as something that can improve that situation."
Review and reflect
- How does Nadra feel about the vaccine?
- What helps Nadra cope about her worries?
- What might you do differently now you have read Nadra’s story?
The views in this story are those of the interviewee. The British Red Cross recommends that you continue to practise social distancing after getting the coronavirus vaccine.
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