COVID-19 Vaccine: Myth vs. Fact

You’ve heard a lot of information swirling around about the COVID-19 vaccine. It’s hard to know what’s true and what’s false. Well, call us mythbusters because we’re here with the facts and ready to crush those vaccine-related myths!

Myth

COVID-19 vaccines will alter my DNA.

Fact

mRNA vaccines work by instructing cells in the body how to make a protein that triggers an immune response, according to the CDC. Injecting mRNA into your body will not interact or do anything to the DNA of your cells. Human cells break down and get rid of the mRNA soon after they have finished using the instructions. There is not a “microchip” in the vaccine that tracks people and/or gathers information.

_____________________

Myth

I still got the flu after I got the flu shot, so the same thing is going to happen with the COVID vaccine.

Fact

The flu vaccines are 40-60 percent effective. The COVID vaccine is 95% effective.

_____________________

Myth

The vaccine was created so quickly that it’s not safe.

Fact

This emergency situation warranted an emergency response, but that doesn’t mean researchers bypassed safety protocols or performed inadequate testing. Researchers used existing clinical trial networks to begin conducting COVID-19 vaccine trials, and manufacturing started while the clinical trials were still underway. Also, the FDA and CDC prioritized the review, authorization and recommendation of COVID-19 vaccines.

_____________________

Myth

I don’t need to wear a mask after I get the vaccine.

Fact

You should continue to wear a mask because it will take time for everyone to get vaccinated and it takes about two weeks after the second dose to reach peak immunity

_____________________

Myth

COVID-19 vaccines have severe side effects.

Fact

Possible side effects will differ for each person, but feedback shows notable symptoms may include fatigue, headache and low grade fever. Some may experience muscle aches, soreness, mild fever, redness and/or swelling at the site of administration.

_____________________

Myth

I already had COVID-19, so I don’t need the vaccine.

Fact

There is not enough information currently available to say if or for how long after infection someone is protected from getting COVID-19 again. This is called natural immunity. Early evidence suggests natural immunity from COVID-19 may not last long, but more studies are needed to better understand this.

_____________________

Learn more about the COVID-19 vaccine.