“Is the COVID vaccine effective?”

That is a really tough question. Since the COVID keeps having new variants being reported, the older vaccines may not be effective against newer strains. Having a good immune system and none of the preexisting illnesses helps more. But how many of the current population really don't have preexisting conditions? Good hand hygiene, keeping your hands away from your face, and wearing a mask if you are not feeling well but still must go out in public is the best way. If you have ever seen the news clips of Asian countries, people wear masks when they are ill. The masks will not prevent you from catching anything, but it does keep you from spreading it. The N95 masks have to be properly fitted and not have any air leaks around the skin. So the ones they have been selling to everyone are really only for fine dust not for COVID. Real N95 masks are part of a respirator with changeable filter cartridges (like gas masks). Avoid sick people, cover your cough, and wash your hands. Hope that helps.