Understandably, some people can be wary about taking a new vaccine. However, the COVID-19 vaccine, perhaps one the most important vaccines as of recently, has many common misconceptions or myths. Here is the truth about what we know about the COVID-19 vaccine.
Myth: The COVID-19 vaccine isn’t safe because of the quick development.
Fact: An emergency situation warrants an emergency response. Since the beginning of the pandemic, pharmaceutical companies invested great amounts of money into resources and technology to quickly develop a vaccine.
Companies ensure that they have followed all of the right protocols and testing to make sure the vaccine is safe for the public. In fact, the Pfizer vaccine, the first vaccine in the U.S., has been FDA approved.
Myth: There are severe side effects from the vaccine.
Fact: Actually, only 15% of those that take the COVID-19 vaccine experience side effect at the healthcare site it was administered. Fifty-percent of people may experience side effects in the two days after administered.
These mild side effects include headache, fatigue, or fever; which are common for any vaccine. Doctors say these side effects are a direct response to your immune system accepting the vaccine.
Myth: If you have already had COVID-19, you don’t need to take the vaccine.
Fact: Although your body may form immunity to COVID-19 after recovering, doctors believe this immunity will not last long. It is still recommended you wait at least 90 days to get the vaccine after testing positive for COVID-19.
Myth: You don’t need to wear a mask after taking the vaccine.
Fact: Because masks are still required nationally, and not everyone has taken the vaccine, you will still need to wear your mask. At this time, scientists are unsure if those who are vaccinated can carry and transmit the virus to others while it’s being acclimated into their system.
So, for the safety of others, please continue to wear your mask and social distance.