Greater New York City Black Nurses’ Association President: When it Comes to COVID-19 Vaccines, ‘I Trust Science’

By Dr. Julius Johnson

I am a nurse and I received my doctorate in nursing. I also represent many fellow nurses. That means that I trust science. Facts are important to me. I want you to have all the facts so that you too feel comfortable when it comes to vaccines, a personal health decision.

The pandemic certainly exposed the disparities that African American New Yorkers face every day when seeking health care. We know that we are at a higher risk of death from the coronavirus. And the 50+ are also at a higher risk. That’s twice as scary for this demographic.

I can tell you that I firmly believe that we need to take care of ourselves, our families and our communities, especially since African Americans are at a higher risk. 

AARP can help you get the trusted information you need to know about the vaccine, its safety, availability, and how effective it is – so you can choose what is best for you. AARP fought to make sure COVID-19 vaccines are free for all Americans, and the organization fought to ensure homebound New Yorkers can get their vaccine if they want one.

AARP is advocating for equitable COVID-19 vaccine distribution, prioritizing all Americans 50+ - who have accounted for about 19 of every 20 COVID deaths. So as a nurse, and as a representative of many nurses out in the field, I urge you to do your research so you can make a good decision. You can find more information from AARP New York at aarp.org/nyvaccine.

- Dr. Julius Johnson, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, is President of the Greater NYC Black Nurses Association