Understanding COVID-19 Vaccines: Key Insights

With SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for the pandemic, spreading rapidly throughout the world and causing millions of infections and deaths, researchers have worked tirelessly to develop vaccines against this deadly virus in under a year. The effectiveness of these vaccines has been demonstrated, significantly reducing the risk of severe disease and hospitalization associated with COVID-19, as noted in recent studies on population immunity and vaccination efficacy ^[1]. Let's explore how these COVID-19 vaccines work, how they were developed so quickly, and whether they are safe.

Many countries have access to various vaccines. All approved vaccines must undergo three phases of trials to demonstrate their safety and efficacy. The final phase typically involves thousands of volunteers. Here are the vaccines that have received emergency use authorization during the pandemic:

• Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine.
• Moderna COVID-19 vaccine.
• Covaxin by Bharat Biotech.
• Oxford AstraZeneca (Covishield in India).
• Coronavac by Sinovac.
• Sputnik V vaccine.
• Johnson & Johnson.
• BBIBP-CorV vaccine.

How Do COVID-19 Vaccines Work?

COVID-19 vaccines instruct your immune system to produce antibodies that combat the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Typically, immunity against a virus develops after an infection, but vaccines can prepare your body without needing an actual infection. Studies have shown that vaccination induces robust immune responses, enhancing the body's ability to neutralize the virus, thereby reducing the severity of potential infections ^[2]. So, once vaccinated, your body is better equipped to fend off the Coronavirus in the future.

How Were These Vaccines Developed so Fast?

Developing vaccines in less than a year is no small feat. The rapid development of COVID-19 vaccines was possible because scientists already had significant knowledge about this virus. There are numerous coronaviruses, some of which cause the common cold, while others lead to more severe illnesses like SARS and MERS. Researchers had been working on vaccines for these strains, and with the pandemic's urgency, scientists across the globe shared data, leading to breakthroughs in genomic sequencing and the swift creation of COVID-19 vaccines ^[3].

Are These Vaccines Safe?

As mentioned, all vaccines must go through multiple testing phases before being approved for public use. While immediate side effects of the new vaccines are evaluated, the long-term effects remain uncertain. However, the risks associated with a vaccine (which has passed rigorous testing) are much more manageable than the unpredictable dangers posed by an infection with SARS-CoV-2. Vaccination has proven to effectively prevent severe infections that could require hospitalization if a vaccinated person becomes infected later, with studies showing a substantial decrease in severe cases among vaccinated individuals ^[4].

As COVID-19 vaccines become available, and while you await vaccination, remember to:

• Wear a mask in public.
• Wash your hands frequently or use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
• Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue.
• Avoid touching your face repeatedly.
• Clean and disinfect commonly touched items and surfaces.
• Steer clear of handshakes.
• Stay home if you're feeling unwell.
• Maintain a distance of 6 feet from others.
• Steer clear of crowded places.

Even if you're fully vaccinated, it's essential to continue following these preventive measures, as not everyone will be vaccinated immediately. Additionally, focus on maintaining a balanced diet and staying active to keep your immune system strong against infectious diseases, including COVID-19. When your time comes, get vaccinated and contribute to ending this pandemic.

Content published on this website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice, or treatment by a trained physician. Always seek information from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers regarding your symptoms and medical conditions for a complete diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice due to something you have read here.