Addressing the ongoing burden of COVID-19
Although the public health emergency has ended, COVID-19 continues to cause serious illness, hospitalization and death. Infection may also increase the risk of cardiovascular complications, including heart attack and stroke. Older adults and patients with underlying health conditions may be especially vulnerable.
Despite these risks, uptake of updated COVID-19 vaccines remains low. Some patients are concerned about side effects, fear that vaccination may make them ill or question the vaccine’s effectiveness. Others may no longer view COVID-19 as a significant health threat, especially if they have experienced a mild infection or have not seen the impact of severe disease firsthand.
These perceptions can make it challenging for physicians to communicate the continuing importance of prevention and help patients make informed vaccination decisions. Addressing questions and misconceptions requires clear, relevant information that connects COVID-19 risk to an individual patient's age, health status and circumstances.
Support informed patient conversations
Physicians are trusted sources of vaccine information and play an important role in helping patients understand their individual risk. Clear, evidence-based conversations can address misconceptions, put ongoing COVID-19 risks into context and help patients make informed vaccination decisions.
Designed as a quick visual reference, this resource brings essential information about COVID-19 risk, vaccination and patient concerns together in one place. Physicians and care teams can use it to prepare for patient discussions, recognize barriers to vaccination and reinforce why COVID-19 protection remains relevant.
Understanding the concerns behind vaccine hesitancy can lead to more focused and productive conversations. With clear information and a trusted recommendation, physicians can help patients evaluate vaccination based on their individual health needs.
Download “Addressing the ongoing burden of COVID-19” for timely data and practical insights to support conversations about COVID-19 risk and vaccination.
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