HUNTSVILLE, Ala — All eyes are on the COVID-19 vaccine. Doctors and scientists say the vaccine is the only way out of the pandemic, but many people still don't trust it.
Health officials say if people trusted their doctors in the past, then they should now too.
"Over several decades, most of us have accepted requirements for vaccinations in the workplace, in some setting and in schools," UAB Dean of the School of Public Health, Paul Erwin, M.D. said.
Vaccines are common. Once a child is born their pediatrician will give parents a list of recommended immunizations that will keep the child and others around the child safe.
"Again, these are requirements that have been a part of our lives for many, many years. And again, in most situations. We've accepted those as, as a measure of safety, both for us, us as individuals, and for the people around us," said Erwin.
Dr. Erwin explains, "In order to attend k-12 schools, for example, or even daycares there are certain childhood vaccine requirements."
Health officials understand why people have hesitations.
"It hasn't always been easy," Dr. Erwin said. "It hasn't always been straightforward or without challenges. Certainly, we've had challenges and obstacles to overcome in the past."
According to data and statistics being analyzed right now, the vaccine remains the best solution solution to slow the spread of COVID-19.
Dr. Erwin says scientists must be honest and transparent about the vaccine process.
"And actually, it's transparency that can help lead to and build trust," Erwin said. "Transparency in what the vaccines will do and what they won't do."