Doctors say you should still wear a mask after receiving COVID-19 vaccine

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) -- With the country past one month in the vaccine era of the COVID-19 pandemic, numerous questions have risen from the public over the distribution of the shots.

Those questions range from vaccine safety, to when the public will be able to get it.

Physicians at Houston Methodist Hospital in the Texas Medical Center addressed vaccination queries during a virtual town hall that happened Friday morning.

Houston Methodist vice president and chief diversity, equity and inclusion officer, Arianne Dowdell, joined the conversation, along with the hospital's president and CEO Dr. Marc L. Boom and associated division head of hospital medicine, Dr. Victor J. Narcisse.

During the discussion, Dr. Boom said he expects to have more vaccines within the next week at both The Woodlands and Sugar Land locations.

Boom also gave advice to those still unsure about taking the shot, noting that one in 17 Texans have already received a vaccine.

He encouraged people who are eager to get their doses to be patient, and referenced additional types of vaccines that are expected to be released to the public soon.

On the other hand, risks of the vaccine were also a topic during the presentation. Dr. Narcisse said nearly 50% of those who have received the shot have experienced mild to moderate reactions.

During the question and answer period, both doctors Narcisse and Boom stated they have received both doses and that they only experienced soreness in their arms, similar to how they feel after their flu vaccine.

For those who have already been vaccinated, Boom said you should still wear a mask for several reasons, primarily because the vaccination is only about 95% effective for patients.

Another question at the top of viewers mind is when will children be able to get vaccinated, and when can they expect to safely be back in school?

Dr. Narcisse said there are currently health trials underway in the Houston area, and that kids are encouraged to participate, however it may be months before the CDC approves anything for children.

In regard to the communities of color, Narcisse said its clear that COVID-19 has had a disproportional effect on minorities with Black Americans being 1.4 times more likely to get ill.

He noted a particular distrust between the medical community and minorities, sharing a personal story about his grandmother being discriminated against because of the color of her skin.

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