St. Charles City-County Library

Messenger RNA Vaccines

Updated as of March 1, 2021

Is messenger RNA really a better vaccine? The answer seems to be a resounding yes. There are some side effects, but both shots are about 95% effective.

What Does the New Mask Guidance Really Mean?

Updated as of May 13, 2021

Fully vaccinated people no longer need to wear masks outdoors or in most indoor settings. But there are limits.

CDC Advisers Endorse Pfizer Vaccine for Children Ages 12 to 15

Updated as of May 12, 2021

"[T]he fact that they've been unable to be vaccinated has caused major disruptions in their lives that have real developmental consequences. Vaccination ...will allow these children to more fully return to their normal lives."

How Much Herd Immunity Is Enough?

Updated as of April 2, 2021

Hard as it may be to hear...it may take close to 90 percent immunity to bring the virus to a halt — almost as much as is needed to stop a measles outbreak.

What can fully vaccinated people do? Dr. Leana Wen's advice.

Updated as of March 10, 2021

Remember that the vaccine is not bullet-proof protection. It offers very good protection, especially against severe disease -- but there is still going to be some level of risk.

You’re Vaccinated. Your Kids Are Not. What Now?

Updated as of April 13, 2021

Keep in mind that what’s right for one family may not be right for yours. “When you’re assessing risk, it’s not a ‘yes’ or ‘no.’ It’s a framework.”

My Family Wants to Visit This Summer. Is Travel Safe Yet?

Updated as of April 8, 2021

The key thing here is balancing individual and collective risk...Maintaining pandemic precautions until most people are vaccinated and case counts drop will help keep everyone safe.