To Vaccinate or not to Vaccinate; That is the Question! (New Insights into COVID-19 Vaccination)

Abstract

Objective: This mini-review of literature aimed to discuss the obstacles and benefits of vaccination in the era of the current pandemic, either the COVID-19 vaccines, which are on their way to be released, or the influenza vaccines, regarding which much debate is ongoing concerning their effectiveness for ameliorating the severity of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methodology: A literature search was done till November 2020 in the PubMed database.

Results: Pathophysiology behind the COVID-19 vaccination, the related obstacles and future perspectives are discussed in detail. Discussion on influenza vaccination during the pandemic, along with the most recent guidelines, is also presented.

Conclusion: During the COVID-19 pandemic, influenza vaccination is mandatory for all individuals, provided that there are no contraindications. Three SARS-CoV-2 vaccines are being released till the time being, while FDA approval for monoclonal antibodies for the treatment of at-risk outpatients to lower hospitalization rates is ongoing.

Keywords: COVID-19; COVID-19 vaccine; SARS-CoV-2; influenza vaccine; monoclonal antibodies for COVID-19; pandemic.