Covid-19 crisis Is the vaccine really effective?

Someone, who is doubtful about vaccination, said that the statistics on serious illness between vaccinated and unvaccinated people are not reliable. He argues that many older people have existing medical conditions and do not want to be vaccinated. This contributed to a higher rate of serious illness and deaths. 

His statement is true, to some extent. 

However, the researchers are aware of the bias and has dealt with it in a proper manner. They carry out randomized studies by taking two groups of people with similar profiles, such as age and medical conditions. They vaccinated one group and not the other group. The measure the outcome at the end of the trial.

This allows the researcher to make a conclusion about the efficacy of the vaccine with a high degree of confidence, i.e. by removing the bias. 

The researcher also tests the safety level of the vaccines, i.e. that it does not cause serious side effects.

The health authorities studied the results of many clinical trials before they conclude that the vaccine is effective. 

The panel of experts have to study the results of many clinical trials before reaching a conclusion.

I have seen many non-experts making conclusions based on vidoes shared online. Several of these videos are not balanced, as they use data selectively to support their hypothesis. .These conclusions are likely to be wrong. 

Now, I share my views on whether the vaccine is truly effective?

I believe that it is. I trust that the experts know their stuff and have made the correct conclusion from the trial results.

There is still a small chance that the experts may be wrong.

The arguments support the alternative hypothesis, i.e. that the vaccines is not effecitve, has lower credibility.

I advise the general public to trust the experts and not be misled by unreliable videos.

Tan Kin Lian

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