Sorting Fact from Fiction: Educational Resources on the COVID-19 Vaccine

COVID-19 vaccination rates continue to climb in communities across the United States and globally. While many seek vaccines as they become eligible, there are many individuals who remain hesitant or have questions about the safety and efficacy of the available vaccines.

If you provide educational resources to your cooperative’s employees regarding the vaccines, we’ve compiled some straightforward and easily understood resources. Whether it’s an infographic or a summary of answers to frequently asked questions, this list of resources can help you provide information from leading sources most familiar with the pandemic.

• Johns Hopkins University has developed this “animated” infographic that walks audiences through the basic facts, safety elements and links to learn more.
• The State of Michigan developed a graphic outlining the phases of vaccine approvals by the FDA and what’s addressed in each phase to ensure the safety of those being vaccinated.
• Northwestern Medical wrote this article that breaks down the dos and don’ts of getting a COVID-19 vaccine.
• Council of the European Union produced this illustrated summary of how a mRNA vaccine works.
• Centers of Disease Control (CDC) authored an FAQ-styled article highlighting the facts about COVID vaccines. Additionally, this brief article with links provides guidance on ways to determine factual information on the pandemic and vaccines.

We also recognize the mental toll that the pandemic is taking on many people—whether it’s work-based, interpersonal relationships or individual mental health. Be sure to remind co-op employees eligible for participation in the NRECA Medical Plan that they (and their covered dependents 18 years of age and older) can take advantage of NRECA’s Life Strategy Counseling program.

The program has developed a COVID-19 toolkit with helpful information on vaccines, keeping or developing positive habits and coping with change; a video series on building strong relationships; as well as a wealth of other articles and videos on topics related to health, life, family, money and work. Participants can also seek assistance from a licensed counselor or receive referrals to a local resource.