Latest updates on the COVID-19 vaccines.
Since sharing our COVID-19 vaccine roundup in February, more than 87 million people have been fully vaccinated, which reflects nearly 26.4% of the US population. In addition to the growing distribution of vaccines, in early April, all 50 states announced that COVID-19 vaccine availability would be expanded to residents aged 16 and older. To learn more about the latest facts, we checked in with reliable sources like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Which vaccinations are currently available? And who can receive them?
The vaccines that are currently available include the Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccines, with Johnson & Johnson’s Janssen vaccine temporarily paused after six reported cases of a rare and severe type of blood clot. Both the Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccines require two doses, with 95% and 94.1% efficacy against COVID-19, respectively. The Johnson & Johnson (Janssen) vaccine requires only one dose and has been proven to be 66.3% effective at preventing COVID-19.
Can you get COVID-19 from the vaccine?
The CDC states that none of the authorized and recommended COVID-19 vaccines contain the live virus. Therefore, the vaccine will not make you sick with COVID-19.
When are you considered fully vaccinated?
To be considered fully vaccinated, you’ll have to wait until two weeks after your second dose of either the Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna vaccine, or two weeks after a single dose of the Johnson & Johnson (Janssen) vaccine.
Can you still spread COVID-19 after getting vaccinated?
Even after a full vaccination, you should continue to take precautions by wearing a mask and practicing social distancing. The vaccines are effective at protecting you from getting the virus, but the CDC is still determining how the vaccines will mitigate the spread of the coronavirus.
What are the most common side effects?
Some common side effects of the COVID-19 vaccine include a sore arm, muscle pain, headache, nausea, fever, and tiredness. If you’re thinking about taking any over-the-counter medications to alleviate these symptoms, the CDC recommends talking to your doctor first.
How long are you protected?
The CDC claims that experts are still learning more about how long the vaccines protect against COVID-19.
To keep up with vaccine developments and proven facts, continue to check back on the CDC website. You can also follow Praxis on Twitter, Facebook, or LinkedIn for the latest news on COVID-19 and the healthcare industry.
