Vaccines are probably our best chance to end the COVID-19 pandemic. In fact, it is estimated that by March 11, nearly 202 million people have received their first jab.
However, these vaccines are accompanied by many myths that you might also have come across on social media or heard from the people in your life. For instance, the rapid development of these vaccines has raised numerous questions regarding their effectiveness and safety.
In this article, we will be debunking common myths about the COVID-19 vaccine, so keep reading.
Myth #1 – The COVID-19 Vaccine is Not Safe Because It Was Developed Too Rapidly
The COVID-19 vaccine was indeed developed quite rapidly, given the urgency for it. However, it was only possible due to higher collaboration and increased funding that allowed vaccine manufacturers to work fast during the pandemic. Clinical trials for the COVID-19 vaccines were carried out with the same protocols used for all vaccine trials, and the results were reviewed and approved by numerous independent advisory panels.
Moreover, the technology used to develop the vaccine isn’t new. It has been comprehensively studied and used for cancer research, and the actual research for messenger RNA (mRNA) goes back several decades.
Myth #2 – COVID-19 Vaccine Causes Severe Side Effects
COVID-19 does lead to a few short-lived side effects that resolve without injury or complication. Side effects such as chills, headache, muscle pain, fever, or fatigue are common, but they only last for a day or two.
Note that these side effects actually indicate that your immune system responds to the vaccine, and you shouldn’t stress about it too much.
Myth #3 – COVID-19 Vaccine Contain Fetal Tissue
COVID-19 vaccines don’t contain fetal cells or fetal tissues. The vaccines have been tested using lab-maintained fetal cell lines that have been in use for over 4 decades.
Myth #4 – People Who Have Recovered from COVID-19 Don’t Need the Vaccine
There isn’t sufficient information to say how long a natural infection with COVID-19 provides immunity from the disease. There are cases where people have become reinfected with the virus, even after being severely sick with it. According to the CDC’s recommendation, a patient who has recovered from the disease should get the vaccine 90 days after getting infected.
Myth #5 – People Who Have Received the COVID-19 Vaccine Do Not Need to Wear Masks
The COVID-19 vaccine keeps you safe from becoming severely sick from COVID-19. However, you might still be able to carry and transmit the virus to others. Until more is known about how effective the vaccine is, it is highly advised to continue using precautionary measures such as social distancing and wearing a mask.
Last Few Words
Most of the myths about the COVID-19 vaccine do not hold any truth to them. It is highly recommended that you get your shot as soon as it is available to you so that the world may not have to face this deadly disease any longer.
