The COVID-19 vaccine is available to everyone in the United States for free, even if they don't have insurance. This means that uninsured individuals can access low- or no-cost healthcare services, including testing, treatment, and vaccination, in their communities. The federal government has been purchasing and providing vaccines free of charge to anyone, regardless of insurance coverage or ability to pay. However, concerns have been raised about how uninsured individuals will access the vaccines once the federal government stops purchasing them. Vaccine manufacturers have indicated that they will charge a significant amount per dose on the commercial market. To address this issue, a temporary "Bridge Access Program" has been announced, which will provide COVID-19 vaccines to uninsured adults. This program will involve purchasing vaccines through the CDC's Section 317 program and distributing them through local health departments and health centers, with support from pharmacy chains. The aim is to ensure access to vaccines for millions of uninsured Americans. However, these temporary approaches do not address access to vaccines beyond COVID-19. It is recommended that uninsured individuals take advantage of the available free vaccines to protect themselves against severe outcomes of COVID-19 and reduce the chance of Long COVID.
Key Takeaways
- COVID-19 vaccines are free for every individual in the United States, regardless of insurance coverage or ability to pay.
- Uninsured individuals can access low- or no-cost health care services, including testing, treatment, and vaccines, in their communities.
- A temporary "Bridge Access Program" has been implemented to provide free COVID-19 vaccines to uninsured adults, administered through local health departments, health centers, and participating pharmacy chains.
- Concerns about cost and lack of awareness may present barriers to vaccination for uninsured adults, highlighting the need for continued efforts to address disparities in uptake and health status.
- Vaccination is recommended to protect against severe outcomes of COVID-19 and reduce the chance of Long COVID.
Understanding the Free Availability of COVID Vaccines
The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about unprecedented challenges, but one silver lining is that the vaccines to combat the virus are available to everyone in the United States, regardless of insurance status. In this section, we will explore the details of the free availability of COVID vaccines and how it benefits individuals without insurance.
Government-funded Vaccines
The federal government has taken a proactive approach in ensuring that COVID-19 vaccines are accessible to all Americans, including those without insurance. Since the early stages of the vaccination campaign, the government has purchased all COVID-19 vaccines and provided them free of charge to anyone, regardless of insurance coverage or ability to pay. This commitment to public health has been crucial in controlling the spread of the virus and protecting vulnerable populations.
To ensure that uninsured individuals have access to the vaccines, the federal government has implemented various programs. The HRSA COVID-19 Uninsured Program, for example, was established to provide low- or no-cost health care services, including testing, treatment, and vaccines, in communities across the country. However, it is important to note that the program has stopped accepting claims due to a lack of funds.
No Cost to Individuals
Despite concerns about the commercial market pricing of COVID-19 vaccines, uninsured individuals can rest assured that they will not incur any costs when receiving the vaccine. Providers are prohibited from charging for the COVID-19 vaccine or its administration, ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder individuals from getting vaccinated. This is a significant step towards achieving equitable access to the vaccine, particularly for those who are low income, people of color, and in poorer health.
Additionally, vaccine manufacturers have recognized the importance of ensuring free access to the vaccine for uninsured individuals. Pfizer and Moderna, two prominent vaccine manufacturers, have announced their intention to provide their vaccines at no cost to uninsured individuals. While specific details of these arrangements are not yet available, this commitment from manufacturers is a positive development that will further support the goal of widespread vaccination.
The HHS Bridge Access Program
In an effort to bridge the gap in access to COVID-19 vaccines for uninsured and underinsured adults, the federal government has launched the HHS Bridge Access Program. This temporary program, administered through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), aims to maintain access to COVID-19 vaccines for millions of uninsured Americans.
Under the HHS Bridge Access Program, a public-private partnership has been established to ensure access to vaccines at local pharmacies, public health infrastructure, and health centers. Three pharmacy chains will be involved in administering the vaccines, with support from the CDC. This collaborative effort is crucial in expanding vaccination opportunities for uninsured individuals, addressing concerns about cost and lack of awareness.
It is important to note that the HHS Bridge Access Program is a temporary solution and is scheduled to end in December 2024. However, a longer-term solution called the Vaccines for Adults (VFA) program has been proposed, although it has not yet been enacted into law. These ongoing efforts highlight the commitment of the federal government and its partners to ensure that all individuals, regardless of insurance status, have access to COVID-19 vaccines.
In conclusion, the free availability of COVID vaccines for people without insurance is a significant milestone in the fight against the pandemic. Uninsured individuals can access the vaccines without any financial burden, thanks to the efforts of the federal government and vaccine manufacturers. Temporary programs like the HHS Bridge Access Program are instrumental in ensuring equitable access to vaccines, and longer-term solutions are being explored to sustain this accessibility. It is crucial for uninsured individuals to take advantage of these opportunities to protect themselves and their communities from the severe outcomes of COVID-19.
For more information, you can visit the HHS COVID-19 Care for Uninsured Individuals website.
Challenges Faced by Uninsured Individuals
Accessing Vaccines
As of the current date, the COVID-19 vaccine is available free of charge to every individual in the United States, regardless of insurance coverage or the lack thereof[^1^]. This means that uninsured individuals can receive the vaccine without having to worry about any financial burden. Providers are prohibited from charging for the COVID-19 vaccine or its administration[^1^]. Additionally, low- or no-cost health care services, including testing, treatment, and vaccines, can be found in communities to support uninsured individuals[^1^].
However, there have been concerns about how uninsured individuals will access the vaccines, especially given the potential cost on the commercial market[^1^]. Vaccine manufacturers have indicated that they may charge $110-$130 per dose for the COVID-19 vaccine[^1^]. This raises questions about the accessibility of the vaccine for uninsured individuals.
To address this issue, the federal government and vaccine manufacturers have announced plans for a temporary "Bridge Access Program" to provide COVID-19 vaccines to uninsured adults[^1^]. The program will involve purchasing vaccines through the CDC's Section 317 program and distributing them through local health departments and health centers[^1^]. Three pharmacy chains will also be involved in administering the vaccines, with support from the CDC[^1^]. Although specific details are not yet available, Pfizer and Moderna have expressed their intention to provide their vaccines at no cost to uninsured individuals[^1^].
Financial Concerns
Uninsured adults in the United States, particularly those who are low income, people of color, and in poorer health, may face significant financial concerns when it comes to accessing healthcare services, including vaccinations[^1^]. The HRSA COVID-19 Uninsured Program, which previously provided coverage for uninsured individuals, has stopped accepting claims due to a lack of funds[^1^]. This can further compound the financial challenges faced by uninsured individuals.
The temporary "Bridge Access Program" aims to alleviate some of these financial concerns by providing free COVID-19 vaccines for uninsured adults[^1^]. Through this program, uninsured and underinsured individuals can access vaccines at local pharmacies, public health infrastructure, and health centers[^1^]. This public-private partnership ensures that millions of uninsured Americans can still receive the COVID-19 vaccine without incurring any costs[^1^]. However, it's important to note that this program is temporary and is scheduled to end in December 2024[^1^].
Disparities in Uptake
Despite the availability of free vaccines, concerns about cost and lack of awareness about their availability could present barriers to vaccination for uninsured adults[^1^]. These challenges may exacerbate existing disparities in vaccine uptake and health status. Uninsured individuals who are low income, people of color, and in poorer health may be at a higher risk of not receiving the COVID-19 vaccine, which could have serious implications for their health and the overall public health response.
It is important for healthcare providers, community organizations, and government agencies to work together to address these disparities and ensure that uninsured individuals have equitable access to the COVID-19 vaccine[^1^]. Efforts should be made to increase awareness about the availability of free vaccines and provide support and resources to help uninsured individuals navigate the healthcare system.
In conclusion, while the COVID-19 vaccine is free for people without insurance, uninsured individuals may face challenges in accessing vaccines due to financial concerns and disparities in uptake[^1^]. The temporary "Bridge Access Program" and other initiatives aim to address these challenges and ensure that uninsured adults have access to the COVID-19 vaccine without any financial burden[^1^]. However, it is crucial to continue working towards long-term solutions to improve access to vaccines beyond COVID-19 and reduce disparities in healthcare.
Temporary Bridge Access Program for Uninsured Adults
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to affect communities worldwide, ensuring access to vaccines for all individuals, regardless of insurance status, becomes a critical priority. In the United States, the federal government has taken steps to address this issue through the implementation of the Temporary Bridge Access Program for Uninsured Adults.
Goals
The primary goal of the Temporary Bridge Access Program is to maintain access to COVID-19 vaccines for millions of uninsured Americans. It aims to bridge the gap between the availability of vaccines and the ability of uninsured adults to receive them. By providing free vaccines, the program aims to reduce barriers to vaccination and promote equitable distribution.
Partnership with CDC
The Temporary Bridge Access Program is administered through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The CDC's Section 317 program plays a crucial role in purchasing vaccines for distribution to local health departments and health centers. This partnership ensures that vaccines reach the communities that need them most, including uninsured adults.
Collaboration with Pharmacy Chains
To facilitate the administration of vaccines, the Temporary Bridge Access Program has partnered with three major pharmacy chains. These pharmacy chains, with support from the CDC, will play a vital role in ensuring that vaccines are readily accessible to uninsured adults. This collaboration leverages the existing infrastructure of these pharmacy chains, making it easier for individuals to receive their COVID-19 vaccines.
Free COVID-19 Vaccines for Uninsured Adults
Thanks to the Temporary Bridge Access Program, uninsured adults in the United States can access COVID-19 vaccines without any cost. Vaccine manufacturers, such as Pfizer and Moderna, have committed to providing their vaccines at no cost to uninsured individuals. This initiative ensures that financial barriers do not hinder the vaccination efforts among the uninsured population.
It is important to note that the program's availability is temporary and is currently scheduled to end in December 2024. However, a longer-term solution called the Vaccines for Adults (VFA) program has been proposed, although it has not yet been enacted into law. This proposed program aims to address access to vaccines beyond COVID-19, recognizing the importance of vaccination in maintaining public health.
Addressing Barriers and Disparities
The implementation of the Temporary Bridge Access Program for Uninsured Adults acknowledges the challenges that uninsured individuals may face in accessing COVID-19 vaccines. Low-income individuals, people of color, and those in poorer health may be particularly vulnerable to these barriers. By providing free vaccines and leveraging existing healthcare infrastructure, the program strives to reduce disparities in vaccine uptake and improve health outcomes for uninsured adults.
To further support the program's success, raising awareness about the availability of free vaccines is crucial. Concerns about cost and lack of knowledge about access to vaccines can present significant barriers. By disseminating information and promoting vaccine education, we can ensure that uninsured adults have the necessary information to make informed decisions about their health.
In conclusion, the Temporary Bridge Access Program for Uninsured Adults plays a vital role in ensuring equitable access to COVID-19 vaccines in the United States. Through partnerships with the CDC and pharmacy chains, free vaccines are made available to uninsured individuals. This initiative aims to address barriers and disparities, promoting better health outcomes for all. As we navigate the challenges posed by the pandemic, ensuring access to vaccines for every individual remains a top priority.
For more information, please visit the HHS COVID-19 Care for Uninsured Individuals website.
Vaccine Manufacturers Commitment to Free Vaccines
The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about a dramatic shift in our lives, affecting our health, economy, and daily routines. In the quest to combat the virus, vaccines have emerged as a beacon of hope. However, concerns have been raised regarding the accessibility of these vaccines for uninsured individuals. Fortunately, vaccine manufacturers have acknowledged this issue and made commitments to ensure that everyone, regardless of insurance coverage or ability to pay, has access to the COVID-19 vaccine.
Pfizer and Moderna's Pledge
Leading vaccine manufacturers, Pfizer and Moderna, have stepped forward to address the concerns of uninsured individuals. They have announced their intention to provide their vaccines at no cost to those without insurance. This commitment is a significant relief for many who might have otherwise faced barriers to accessing the vaccine due to financial constraints.
Although the commitment to offering the vaccine for free is reassuring, specific details about the implementation and distribution of these vaccines to uninsured individuals are yet to be disclosed. It is essential for these details to be made available promptly to ensure that the process is seamless and accessible to everyone who needs it.
Details Yet to be Disclosed
While the commitments made by Pfizer and Moderna are promising, the exact mechanisms and logistics for providing the vaccines to uninsured individuals are still under development. It is crucial for these details to be shared with the public as soon as possible to alleviate any concerns and ensure a smooth and equitable distribution process.
In the meantime, various temporary programs have been put in place to bridge the gap and provide COVID-19 vaccines to uninsured adults. The federal government, in collaboration with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), has initiated the "Bridge Access Program." This program involves purchasing vaccines through the CDC's Section 317 program and distributing them through local health departments and health centers. Additionally, three pharmacy chains will be involved in administering the vaccines, with support from the CDC.
However, it's important to note that these temporary approaches only address access to COVID-19 vaccines and do not provide a long-term solution for uninsured individuals. A proposed longer-term solution called the Vaccines for Adults (VFA) program is yet to be enacted into law.
Ensuring Equitable Access to Vaccines
The commitment of vaccine manufacturers to provide free vaccines to uninsured individuals is a significant step towards ensuring equitable access to COVID-19 vaccines. However, concerns about costs and lack of awareness regarding the availability of free vaccines may still present barriers to vaccination for uninsured adults. These challenges could exacerbate existing disparities in vaccine uptake and overall health outcomes.
To address these issues, it is crucial for public health authorities, healthcare providers, and community organizations to work together to spread awareness about the availability of free vaccines and provide support in navigating the vaccination process. By doing so, we can ensure that every individual, regardless of insurance coverage or financial circumstances, has the opportunity to protect themselves and their communities against COVID-19.
In conclusion, the commitment of vaccine manufacturers like Pfizer and Moderna to provide free vaccines for uninsured individuals is a significant step towards achieving equitable access to COVID-19 vaccines. While specific details are yet to be disclosed, temporary programs are in place to bridge the gap and ensure access to vaccines for uninsured adults. It is essential for the public to stay informed about these programs and for efforts to be made in spreading awareness to ensure that no one is left behind in the fight against the pandemic.
Addressing Barriers to Vaccination for Uninsured Adults
Cost and Awareness Concerns
As of the current date, the COVID vaccine is free for people without insurance in the United States. This means that every individual, regardless of their insurance status, can receive the vaccine at no cost. Providers are not allowed to charge for the COVID-19 vaccine or its administration. This ensures that uninsured individuals have access to the vaccine without any financial barriers.
However, there have been concerns about the cost of the COVID-19 vaccines on the commercial market. Vaccine manufacturers have indicated that they may charge $110 to $130 per dose. This raises concerns about how uninsured individuals, particularly those who are low income, will be able to access the vaccines.
To address these concerns, the federal government and vaccine manufacturers have announced plans for a temporary "Bridge Access Program." This program aims to provide COVID-19 vaccines to uninsured adults by purchasing vaccines through the CDC's Section 317 program and distributing them through local health departments and health centers. Three pharmacy chains will be involved in administering the vaccines, with support from the CDC.
Furthermore, Pfizer and Moderna have announced their intention to provide their vaccines at no cost to uninsured individuals. While details are not yet available, this commitment from the vaccine manufacturers is a step towards ensuring that cost is not a barrier for uninsured adults seeking vaccination.
Despite these efforts, there may still be barriers to vaccination for uninsured adults. Lack of awareness about the availability of free vaccines could prevent individuals from seeking vaccination. It is crucial to spread information about the availability and accessibility of the COVID-19 vaccines for uninsured individuals. This will help address any misconceptions or doubts they may have and encourage them to get vaccinated.
Impact on Health Disparities
Uninsured adults in the United States, especially those who are low income, people of color, and in poorer health, may already face challenges in accessing healthcare services. The lack of insurance coverage can contribute to health disparities and inequities. The COVID-19 pandemic has further highlighted these disparities, with certain communities experiencing higher rates of infection and poorer health outcomes.
Addressing barriers to vaccination for uninsured adults is essential to reduce health disparities related to COVID-19. The temporary approaches, such as the Bridge Access Program, aim to ensure that uninsured individuals have access to the COVID-19 vaccines. However, it is important to note that these temporary solutions do not address access to vaccines beyond COVID-19.
To achieve long-term equity in vaccination and healthcare, a longer-term solution called the Vaccines for Adults (VFA) program has been proposed. However, this program has not yet been enacted into law. The VFA program would provide comprehensive access to vaccines for uninsured and underinsured adults, addressing not only COVID-19 but also other vaccine-preventable diseases.
In conclusion, while the COVID vaccine is currently free for uninsured adults in the United States, there are still challenges to ensuring equitable access to vaccination. Cost concerns and lack of awareness can present barriers for uninsured individuals. Temporary programs like the Bridge Access Program aim to address these barriers, but long-term solutions such as the Vaccines for Adults program are needed to achieve health equity. It is crucial to spread information and promote awareness about the availability of free vaccines to ensure that all individuals, regardless of their insurance status, can protect themselves and their communities from COVID-19.
For more information, please refer to the CDC's official announcement.
The HHS Bridge Access Program
Free Vaccines for Uninsured and Underinsured Adults
Are you worried about the cost of getting the COVID-19 vaccine if you don't have insurance? Well, worry no more! The COVID vaccine is free for people without insurance, thanks to the HHS Bridge Access Program. This program aims to ensure that every individual in the United States, regardless of insurance coverage or ability to pay, can access the COVID-19 vaccine without any financial burden.
Temporary Program
The HHS Bridge Access Program is a temporary solution to address the concerns of uninsured adults in the United States. It is administered through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and is scheduled to end in December 2024. The program aims to maintain access to COVID-19 vaccines for millions of uninsured Americans during this challenging time.
Under this program, the federal government will purchase vaccines through the CDC's Section 317 program. These vaccines will then be distributed to local health departments, health centers, and participating pharmacies. Three pharmacy chains will be involved in administering the vaccines, with support from the CDC.
The good news is that vaccine manufacturers, such as Pfizer and Moderna, have announced their intention to provide their vaccines at no cost to uninsured individuals. This ensures that even without insurance, you can still receive the COVID-19 vaccine without worrying about the cost.
It is important to note that the HHS Bridge Access Program specifically focuses on providing access to COVID-19 vaccines for uninsured and underinsured adults. It does not address access to vaccines beyond COVID-19. However, for most Americans, COVID-19 vaccines remain free through health insurance plans or the Vaccines for Children (VFC) program.
Ensuring Access for All
The HHS Bridge Access Program is a step towards ensuring that everyone, regardless of their insurance status, can protect themselves and their communities from COVID-19. By creating a public-private partnership and leveraging existing healthcare infrastructure, the program aims to make the vaccine accessible to as many uninsured adults as possible.
However, concerns about the cost and lack of awareness about the availability of free vaccines could present barriers to vaccination for uninsured adults. This could further exacerbate existing disparities in vaccine uptake and health status. It is crucial for individuals and communities to spread the word about the HHS Bridge Access Program and encourage uninsured adults to take advantage of this opportunity.
If you are uninsured or underinsured, don't miss out on the chance to get vaccinated against COVID-19. The HHS Bridge Access Program is here to ensure that you can protect yourself and your loved ones without any financial burden. Remember, vaccination is recommended to protect against severe outcomes of COVID-19 and reduce the chance of Long COVID.
Click here to learn more about the research on COVID-19 vaccine access for uninsured adults.
So, don't hesitate to reach out to your local health department, health center, or participating pharmacy to find out how you can access the free COVID-19 vaccine through the HHS Bridge Access Program. Let's work together to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to stay safe and healthy during these challenging times.
Long-Term Solutions for Vaccine Access
With the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring access to vaccines for all individuals is crucial. In the United States, COVID-19 vaccines are provided free of charge, even for those without insurance. This means that every individual, regardless of their insurance status, can receive the COVID-19 vaccine without any financial burden.
Proposed Vaccines for Adults Program
To address the concerns about uninsured adults accessing COVID-19 vaccines, the federal government and vaccine manufacturers have announced a temporary "Bridge Access Program." This program aims to provide COVID-19 vaccines to uninsured adults who may face challenges in accessing healthcare services.
Under the Bridge Access Program, vaccines will be purchased through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) Section 317 program. These vaccines will then be distributed through local health departments and health centers. In addition, three pharmacy chains will be involved in administering the vaccines, with support from the CDC.
The program aims to maintain access to COVID-19 vaccines for millions of uninsured Americans. Pfizer and Moderna, the manufacturers of two widely used COVID-19 vaccines, have also announced their intention to provide their vaccines at no cost to uninsured individuals. However, specific details about the availability and distribution of these vaccines are not yet available.
While these temporary approaches address the immediate need for COVID-19 vaccines, a longer-term solution called the Vaccines for Adults (VFA) program has been proposed. However, this program has not yet been enacted into law.
Vaccines for Children Program
It is important to note that COVID-19 vaccines remain free for most Americans through health insurance plans or the Vaccines for Children (VFC) program. The VFC program provides vaccines to children who might not otherwise have access to them due to their families' inability to pay.
The VFC program has been instrumental in ensuring that children receive essential vaccines, and it continues to play a vital role in facilitating COVID-19 vaccination for eligible children.
Vaccination is recommended for both adults and children to protect against severe outcomes of COVID-19 and reduce the chance of Long COVID. By ensuring access to vaccines for all individuals, regardless of their insurance status, we can work towards achieving widespread vaccination and controlling the spread of the virus.
For more information on access to COVID-19 vaccines for uninsured individuals, you can visit the HRSA COVID-19 Uninsured Program.
In conclusion, while the COVID-19 vaccine is free for people without insurance, it is important to continue advocating for long-term solutions to ensure equitable vaccine access for all individuals. The temporary Bridge Access Program and the proposed Vaccines for Adults program are steps in the right direction, but more work needs to be done to address access to vaccines beyond COVID-19 and to ensure that everyone can benefit from the protection offered by vaccination.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are COVID-19 vaccines free for everyone in the United States?
Yes, COVID-19 vaccines are free for every individual in the United States, even if they do not have insurance. Providers cannot charge for the COVID-19 vaccine or its administration.
What options are available for uninsured individuals to access low- or no-cost healthcare services?
Uninsured individuals can find low- or no-cost health care services, including testing, treatment, and vaccines, in their communities. However, it's important to note that the HRSA COVID-19 Uninsured Program has stopped accepting claims due to a lack of funds.
How have uninsured individuals been able to access COVID-19 vaccines until now?
Up until now, the federal government had purchased all COVID-19 vaccines and provided them free of charge to anyone, regardless of insurance coverage or ability to pay.
Will uninsured individuals face challenges in accessing COVID-19 vaccines?
Yes, uninsured adults in the United States, particularly those who are low income, people of color, and in poorer health, may face challenges in accessing COVID-19 vaccines. Concerns have been raised about how uninsured individuals will access the vaccines, especially considering that vaccine manufacturers have indicated they will charge $110-$130 per dose on the commercial market.
What is the temporary "Bridge Access Program" for uninsured adults?
The federal government and vaccine manufacturers have announced plans for a temporary "Bridge Access Program" to provide COVID-19 vaccines to uninsured adults. The program will involve purchasing vaccines through the CDC's Section 317 program and distributing them through local health departments and health centers. Three pharmacy chains will be involved in administering the vaccines, with support from the CDC.
Will uninsured individuals have to pay for the vaccines under the Bridge Access Program?
Pfizer and Moderna have announced their intention to provide their vaccines at no cost to uninsured individuals under the Bridge Access Program. However, specific details about the program are not yet available.
What are the concerns regarding cost and awareness of free vaccines for uninsured adults?
Concerns about cost and lack of awareness about the availability of free vaccines could present barriers to vaccination for uninsured adults and exacerbate existing disparities in uptake and health status.
Do the temporary approaches address access to vaccines beyond COVID-19?
No, these temporary approaches do not address access to vaccines beyond COVID-19.
What is the HHS Bridge Access Program?
The HHS Bridge Access Program provides free COVID-19 vaccines for uninsured and underinsured adults. The program is administered through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and aims to maintain access to COVID-19 vaccines for millions of uninsured Americans. It creates a public-private partnership to ensure access to vaccines at local pharmacies, public health infrastructure, and health centers.
Is there a longer-term solution for vaccine access for uninsured adults?
A longer-term solution called the Vaccines for Adults (VFA) program has been proposed but not yet enacted into law.
Are COVID-19 vaccines still free for most Americans?
Yes, COVID-19 vaccines remain free for most Americans through health insurance plans or the Vaccines for Children (VFC) program.
Why is vaccination recommended?
Vaccination is recommended to protect against severe outcomes of COVID-19 and reduce the chance of Long COVID.