COVID vaccines open up to 16 and older, which means many high school students are eligible for the vaccine. 

Junior Cole Maxson has a very strong opinion on getting the COVID vaccine and believes if you have the chance to get it, you should go for it. 

“I got the vaccine because I know that vaccines are safe and effective and that when we all get vaccines we are a better off society,” said Maxson.

However, junior Jenna Cramer does not plan on getting her COVID vaccine and she is not sure how she feels about it. 

“I’m kind of iffy about the shot, people don’t know the long-term effects yet and I hate needles. I just hope I don’t react badly to it,” said Cramer.

Besides a fear of needles, Cramer expressed a concern over the immediate effects induvial may face from getting the vaccine.

“I do not know the possible side effects but I do know people who have gotten it and they have only felt sick for the rest of that day and they were fine the next day so I hope that is my case too,” said Cramer.

With vaccine availability varying from state to state, there can be some difficulties in securing a spot for the vaccine. 

“I signed up at multiple different outlets to get the vaccine but oftentimes I was postponed. My mom signed me up even before 16-year-olds could sign up” said Maxson.

After being vaccinated the CDC still recommends that individuals still comply with any applicable workplace or school guidance.

“If it’s required [to wear a mask] I will, and if not then probably not,” said Cramer.

Students who are below the age of 18 who want to receive the vaccine must get parental consent beforehand. 

“My mom is making me get the shot but if I had a choice to get it or not I would still choose to get it because I want to be able to visit my elderly grandparents and not have to stay six feet away from them,” said Maxson.