Community members respond to COVID-19 vaccine

HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (WAFF) -This week the FDA will decide whether or not to approve a COVID-19 vaccine.

If they give the stamp of approval, Huntsville Hospital will be one of the first hospitals in Alabama to receive and distribute the vaccine.

WAFF 48 spoke to people from the community about their thoughts on the vaccine.

Employees at Huntsville Hospital said they will receive 6,825 doses of the COVID vaccine.

Judy Stokes said she was happy to hear the news, since COVID has hit close to home for her.

“There is so much loss and heartache, I have lost three close friends since March to COVID and it’s devastating,” said Stokes.

Health officials said the first round of vaccines will go to health care workers first, which Chuck Stokes said is a smart move.

“I think the fact that they are prioritizing the health care workers and frontline staff and people that are high risk first. I think that is the right approach and I’m sure after that, the rest of us will be ready to receive it,” said Stokes.

Others like Fred Pankey, said he’s not ready to get the vaccine just yet.

“Personally, I think it’s a little early and I probably won’t take it myself. But you know, I definitely think older people should, and people in the health industry should take it,” said Pankey.

The FDA is expected to approve the Pfizer vaccine on Thursday.

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