A local doctor who specializes in infectious disease said he is optimistic about the development and distribution of COVID-19 vaccines. And he believes that the new strain of the virus that has already paralyzed England may not be more severe than the current one, even if more contagious.
The doctor also believes that strict mitigation measures would not be necessary had people adhered to directions from the public health official. He said the battle against the novel coronavirus isn’t over, and in the interim, it is important to continue to physically distance, wear masks, and wash hands.
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“I am very optimistic that the vaccines are safe and effective. I don’t want anyone to get sick. Line up and get it,” advised Dr. Ronald Goren, who is affiliated with Jefferson Health in Torresdale and Falls Township and Trinity Health, which includes St. Mary Medical Center in Middletown Township and Nazareth Hospital in Northeast Philadelphia.
Goren said that Operation Warp Speed, the federal program saw the rapid development of immunizations against the coronavirus, was made possible because the government paid up front for development and production of some vaccines.
“Usually drug companies don’t manufacture before the drugs are approved. Can you imagine this happening 10 years ago? This is as close to a medical miracle that I have ever seen in 40 years,” Goren said.
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It was the decoding of DNA (genetics) and RNA (the molecule that carries instructions from DNA to the cells) that catapulted the vaccines from the laboratories to the population.
Concern has risen since news broke that a more virulent strain of coronavirus has shut down England and caused several European countries to ban flights from that country, But Goren said he believes that the protocols for treatment and the vaccines will not be affected.
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“About a month ago, this new virus mutation – all viruses mutate – has taken over and is much more contagious. I don’t believe it is any more virulent,” he said.
Credit: Jefferson Health
CNBC reported that British officials said the new strain could be 70 percent more transmissible, but that current vaccines are expected to be effective.
“As for these lockdowns, I honestly believe that, if people were more careful about wearing masks, social distancing, and handwashing, there would be fewer spikes,” he said
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He said the uptick of the virus in Philadelphia and Bucks County has tripled the number of patients, and, with the holiday break, it’s time to wait and see if people adhere to the CDC guidelines regarding travel and large gatherings.
Ways residents can help reduce the spread of COVID-19:
- Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
- Wear a mask properly when in a business or where it is difficult to maintain proper social distancing.
- Cover any coughs or sneezes with your elbow, not your hands.
- Clean surfaces frequently.
- Stay home to avoid spreading COVID-19, especially if you are unwell.
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