COVID-19 is by far the more dangerous option. COVID vaccines carry little known risk. But the perils of COVID-19 have been well documented. About 20 percent of people who come down with COVID-19 symptoms develop serious, potentially life-threatening illness. Although people who are older, obese or have other health problems are at highest risk for complications from COVID-19, younger people can become severely ill, too. In a study of more than 3,000 people ages 18 to 34 who were hospitalized for COVID, 20 percent required intensive care and 3 percent died.

The long-term health complications associated with COVID-19 are a serious concern. As many as one in three people who recover from COVID have chronic complaints for months afterward, including exhaustion, a racing heart, blood clots and loss of sense of smell or taste.

Taken directly from NY Times website. More info can also be found here

Yes. While people who have contracted the virus are believed to have some immunity, it’s unclear how long that immunity lasts. It’s advised to wait about 90 days after infection before getting the COVID-19 vaccine.

No vaccination is 100% effective, however, all of the COVID-19 vaccines available in the US  today have been shown to be about 95% effective at blocking COVID-19 and helping to decrease severe cases.

Short term side effects occur in 25-33% of people with the most common being fatigue and a sore arm. The second dose has generally caused more intense reactions that can include a fever, headache, or “brain fog”. For most, the symptoms last a day, while others may need a few days to recover.

While these experiences aren’t pleasant, they are a good sign that your immune system is responding to the vaccine and will provide long-lasting immunity.

No. COVID-19 vaccines don’t make you sterile or affect your fertility in any way.  ​Some people have made false claims about the COVID-19 vaccine and infertility. But research shows there is no evidence that a person will have problems getting pregnant after getting the COVID-19 vaccine. In fact, during the vaccine trials, about the same number of people became pregnant in both the placebo group and the vaccine group.

The Department of Health Services (DHS) encourages all individuals, regardless of immigration status, to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. DHS and its Federal government partners fully support equal access to the COVID-19 vaccines and believe it is a public health imperative to ensure that all individuals residing in the United States have access to the vaccine. DHS Learn more

Yes. If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, and eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine, you can get the vaccine if you want it.

The CDC recently released information based on COVID vaccinations provided to over 30,000 people during pregnancy. No unexpected pregnancy or infant outcomes have been observed related to COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy. Recent studies actually show that antibodies from vaccinated moms cross the placenta to help protect newborns against COVID-19.

Pregnant people are more likely to die or get very sick from COVID-19 than people who aren’t pregnant. And pregnant people who have COVID-19 may have a higher risk of pregnancy complications, like early birth. So if you’re pregnant, it’s important to do what you can to avoid getting COVID-19 — wear a mask and maintain social distancing — whether or not you get the COVID-19 vaccine. Learn more.