THE MOST COMMON COVID-19 VACCINE QUESTIONS
After a year of adjusting to the “new normal,” it’s time to look into what life will be like post-pandemic. More than 150,000,000 shots have been administered in the U.S. so far. With the vaccine being here in less than a year, many questions have circulated. Great news, we’re here to give you all of the answers!
What type of vaccines are out there?
Currently, three vaccines are authorized for use in the United States. The two-dose vaccines are Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna. The one-dose vaccine is called Johnson & Johnson.
Which vaccine is the most effective?
The COVID-19 vaccines produced by Pfizer and Moderna are the most effective at preventing COVID-19 cases in real-world conditions. Research suggests they should maintain their effectiveness over time. The Johnson and Johnson vaccine was shown to be the least effective in clinical trials testing 72% overall efficacy and 86% efficacy against severe disease in the U.S. On the other hand, Pfizer is the most effective testing at 95% efficacy in preventing COVID-19 in those without prior infection.
What are the side effects?
Like every other vaccine, COVID-19 vaccines have side effects. Most of the side effects are moderate and go away within a few days. As shown in the results of clinical trials, more severe or long-lasting side effects are possible but very unlikely.
Some of the most common side effects are:
- Tiredness
- Headache
- Muscle pain
- Chills
- Fever
- Nausea
- Sore arm
After receiving the vaccine, a person should stay 15–30 minutes at the vaccination site in case of any immediate reactions.
How long does immunity from the vaccine last?
It’s unclear exactly how long the vaccines prevent COVID-19 or if booster shots are needed down the road. However, Pfizer-BioNTech said that the ongoing phase 3 clinical trial of its mRNA vaccine shows that vital immunization persists for at least six months among vaccinated individuals.
Where can I get vaccinated?
You can find local guides from places like AARP and GoodRx. It’s also a good idea to follow your state and local government on social media for the latest vaccine updates and tips. Special Facebook groups like this one in South Florida have been created to help locals keep up with information. Lastly, if you go to your state government health site, you’ll be able to register for the vaccine.
Here’s where you can register for the vaccine:
· State: myvaccine.fl.gov.
· Miami-Dade: https://vaccines.nomihealth.com/mdc
· Broward: https://www.broward.org/CoronaVirus/Pages/Vaccination-Sites.aspx
I’m vaccinated, now what?
Once you are fully vaccinated, it’s still important to follow CDC guidelines because no vaccine protects you 100% from the virus. We’re still learning important information about the vaccines, like how long immunity lasts and whether the virus can be transferred to other people after immunity is developed. Even if you don’t have symptoms, you may still be able to transmit COVID-19 to someone else who isn’t vaccinated, although the chances are fewer than if you weren’t vaccinated.
