Every year, vaccines help to save up to 3 million lives because they protect us from at least 20 diseases. We aren’t just protecting ourselves when we get vaccinated; we’re also protecting those around us.
Now that the United States has authorized and recommended vaccines to prevent against Covid-19, here are 3 things to know:
Are the Covid-19 vaccines effective?
An independent interim analysis was performed on the vaccines that were developed by Moderna and Pfizer/BioNTech. The Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine was reported to be 52% effective after the first dose, and 95% effective after two doses.
The vaccine developed by Moderna is 94.1% effective after two doses.
What are the potential side effects of the vaccines?
While all medical treatments have some degree of risks, the risk for Covid-19 vaccines is typically small. Many vaccines have mild side effects, ranging from throat soreness to a slight fever or headaches; while some people have no reactions at all.
However, it’s essential to know that risks in taking the vaccines are significantly lower. The risk of contracting Covid-19 itself is significantly higher and dangerous.
Trial participants commonly felt injection site pain after receiving the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine. A mild to moderate headache and fatigue comes next. Other reported side effects include muscle pain, fever, chills, and swollen lymph node.
These side effects are more common in people between the ages of 18-55. Also, they normally occur after taking the dose for the second time. However, the side effects typically peaked within the next couple of days.
The Moderna’s clinical trial also reveal typically mild to moderate side effects such as fatigue, headaches, chills, muscle aches, and injection site pain. Furthermore, these side effects includes headaches in 4.5% of participants, muscle pain in 8.9%, fatigue in 9.7% of participants, joints pain in 5.2%.
Can pregnant or breastfeeding women get a Covid-19 vaccine?
According to the CDC, the Covid-19 vaccines may be administered to pregnant or breastfeeding women. However, it is advisable to contact your health care provider for advice. Before you decide to get the vaccine, check out the following:
- What is the possibility of you getting the virus?
- The side effects you may experience when the vaccine is administered to you.
- What are the effects of contracting Covid-19?
Conclusion
Throughout the world, Covid-19 is a major health challenge. Experts and authorities are working everyday to provide preventive measures and also develop and administer vaccines. The Covid-19 vaccines will be available to everyone all over the world soon. However, follow all guidelines from public health authorities and medical experts while waiting for it to be available.
