Despite the widespread availability of COVID-19 vaccines and easy access, the U.S. has fallen behind 40 other countries in getting its people fully vaccinated in a pandemic that is still raging.
About 55% of Americans have gotten at least two doses of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines or a single shot of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, according to Johns Hopkins University’s Coronavirus Resource Center. That compares with top-ranked Malta, which has fully vaccinated 83% of its population. Our Canadian neighbors have a 70% vaccination rate. China is at 72%. The UK is at 66%.
And though the pace of vaccinations rose slightly in August, it has trended downward the last two weeks.
Editorial: An appeal to vaccinated Free Press readers
At this rate, “by the end of September, the U.S. will have the lowest vaccination level of all prosperous democracies, With the largest supply & the biggest head start,” Andy Slavitt, who stepped down in June as senior adviser to the White House pandemic response team, said in a tweet last week.
Michigan’s vaccination rate lags behind the national average, with 51.4% of its population now fully vaccinated,CDC data shows.
And that’s despite a supply of coronavirus vaccines that is now abundant. Anyone 12 and older who wants a shot can get a shot. All they have to do is go to a local pharmacy, or text their ZIP code to 438829 or call 800-232-0233.
Don’t have a ride? The government will pay an Uber or Lyft driver to take you there. And in some communities, including Detroit, health care workers will even make a house call to bring the vaccine to you.
What types of COVID-19 vaccines are available in the U.S.?
There are three different coronavirus vaccines widely available today:
Pfizer: Made in partnership with the German-based biotechnology firm BioNTech, this coronavirus vaccine is fully authorized by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration for use in Americans ages 16 and older. Adolescents ages 12-15 also are eligible for the Pfizer vaccine under an FDA emergency use authorization. It is given in a series of two doses, spread three weeks apart. It is being marketed now under the brand name Comirnaty.
Federal regulators have recommended a third dose for people with immune-suppressing conditions. A decision is expected next week on whether Americans ages 65 and older, along with people who are at high risk of severe disease, should also take a third dose.
Moderna: Available under an emergency use authorization for Americans 18 and older, the Massachusetts-based company has applied for full approval from the FDA for its coronavirus vaccine. It is given in a series of two doses, spaced four weeks apart. Federal regulators have recommended a third dose for people with compromised immune systems.
Johnson & Johnson: Available through an FDA emergency use authorization for Americans ages 18 and older, the J&J…
Read More: The truth about COVID-19 vaccines. Everything you need to know.