Following the release of the COVID-19 vaccines,  19.9 percent of Americans have received their full vaccinations.

Within the 19.9 percent of fully vaccinated Americans, some of Rosary’s very own Royals have received their full dose of COVID-19 vaccinations. 

Among the fully vaccinated Royals, Isabel Alderete ’21 received both shots of her Pfizer vaccine at Soka University. She revealed the effects that the Pfizer vaccine had on her: “After the vaccine, my arm was really sore, but I overall felt fine. After the second dose, I was more tired than usual, but I gained my energy back quickly.”

Isabel further shared why she advises others to get the vaccine: “I advise everyone to get the vaccine to help prevent the spread of covid-19, and to help prevent new strains of it from forming. Getting the vaccine will help us return to normal.”

Alongside Isabel, Claire Early ’21 received the Pfizer vaccine at the Memorial Care hospital. 

She described how she felt after each dose of the Pfizer vaccine: “After my first dose of the Pfizer vaccine, I had no side effects at all. However, after the second dose I had a really bad headache, arm pain, and a fever the day I got it but was better the next day after resting and drinking lots of water.”

Claire further implored other Royals’ to get the COVID-19 vaccine: “It’s up to you, but I have felt much safer and happier since my family and I were vaccinated. Even if you’re not in a risk group, being vaccinated can help protect others.” 

Kimberly Gallo ’22 recently received her Pfizer vaccines at the PIH health in Whittier. She explained how she felt little to no side effects from both doses and highly encouraged teens across the US to get the vaccines in order to establish a sense of normalcy again: “We all want Covid-19 to end soon so getting vaccinated helps us get closer to normality.”

Being a volunteer at the PIH in Whittier, Kimberly shared why she believes it is crucial to receive the vaccine from a healthcare worker’s stance: “Getting vaccinated is the best way to help all our healthcare workers who work nonstop and sacrifice everything to help save lives. So please get vaccinated!”

Although multiple uncertainties surround being vaccinated within the US, these three brave Royals serve as a reminder of the benefits and peace of mind that come along with being fully vaccinated.