With about 60% of students 16 and older in CCSD needing COVID-19 vaccinations – the wait is finally over: students who are 16 or older can now receive a COVID-19 vaccine. 

“I’m thrilled to be able to get my vaccine soon,” sophomore Hai Tong said. “I have been very nervous about going out since the pandemic started but with the vaccine ill have a blanket of protection.”

Students are able to schedule an appointment online and sign up at a specific location near them. The possible vaccination options include Pfizer, Moderna, Novavax, and AstraZeneca. Those interested can get the vaccine from pharmacies, such as Wallgreens and CVS, as well as through the Southern Nevada Health District.

“I’m going to be getting a vaccine because I feel like it will help me more than it will hurt me,” sophomore Brandon Windon said. “The side effects don’t matter that much because at the end of the day I’m just hoping for herd immunity.”

However, some students are hesitant about vaccinating, due to lingering uncertainty about unknown hazards and possible allergic reactions. 

“I’m not completely sure on whether or not I’ll take the vaccine,” sophomore Aiden Duval said. “I’ll most likely wait a few months to see if there are any side effects that are concerning and dangerous.”

With COVID-19 immunizations not being a requirement to attend a school in CCSD, students can choose to opt out and still return for their assigned cohort. 

“I feel like I don’t need to take the vaccine as of right now,” sophomore Gavin Ariota said. “I’m not aware of the long-term side effects it could have and considering people my age aren’t very affected by COVID-19, I don’t think I should take it right now.”