COVID-19 Vaccine Updates for Dummies

For the first time since our isolation began, there was a solution to the pandemic we, as a nation, have been battling for months. On December 11, 2020, the FDA issued emergency use authorization of the first COVID-19 vaccine by Pfizer-BioNTech. Then, on December 18, 2020, the FDA issued emergency use authorization for a second COVID-19 vaccine by Moderna. After months spent isolating, one would think that hearing news of a vaccine would bring rejoice and relief throughout the country. Instead, confusion and rumors cover the nation. This article should quell most, if not all, of the fears, concerns, and questions you may hold regarding the COVID-19 vaccination. The apprehension the world is feeling regarding the COVID-19 vaccine is completely understandable. For starters, many feel skeptical about its fast-paced production and are concerned with the vaccine efficacy. However, according to Dr. Yager, an associate professor of microbiology at Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences in Albany, NY, prior to the pandemic “scientists had existing data on the structure, genome, and life cycle of this type of virus.”  With this starting point for intense research, as well as limited competition between research centers, scientists were able to collaborate worldwide to rapidly-produce a solution to the outbreak. In addition, global governmental funding enabled the 31-68 billion dollar endeavor of producing a vaccine to be accomplished with speed and accuracy. Another major question and concern was the implication of a new mRNA vaccine to fight infectious diseases. However, mRNA research is not a new technology. Human trials of cancer vaccines using the same mRNA technology have been taking place since 2011, meaning that by no means were corners cut while developing the vaccine. And no, for all the myths out there, the mRNA vaccine cannot alter your DNA and is not linked to Bell’s palsy. According to Full Fact, “if you monitored a group of people this size and they hadn’t had the vaccine, this is about how many people you might expect would develop Bell’s palsy.” 

The FDA is taking measurable precautions and moderations to ensure the safe administration of the COVID-19 vaccine. Although anaphylactic reactions to polyethylene glycol, a component in the vaccine, have been rarely reported, testing sites mandate a wait of 15-30 minutes post-vaccination to ensure no allergic reactions or other unnatural symptoms occur.

With the release of the vaccine, hope is beginning to bloom in the country’s heart. With time, we will be able to create herd immunity to protect those who can’t be vaccinated and continue working towards authorizing vaccines safely for those under 16 years of age. Until then, be sure to wear a proper mask, maintain distance, and watch over your safety as best as possible!