MYTH

FACT

The vaccine was rushed and isn’t safe.

This mRNA vaccine was able to be manufactured quickly based on technology that has been developed and tested over the last 20 years. Between the Pfizer and Moderna trial, there were around 70,000 people enrolled. The vaccines were proven to be about 95% effective, with limited side effects.

Don’t get the vaccine if you have a history of allergies.

Severe allergic reactions to the disease are very rare, with only 2-5 people for everyone one million getting a severe reaction. If you have a history of a severe allergic reaction let your provider know before getting vaccinated and they can monitor you appropriately.

The vaccine has harmful and dangerous side effects.

Severe side effects are very rare. Common side effects include pain and swelling at the site of injection, and possible fevers, chills, and fatigue. There have now been over 500,000 deaths due to COVID, and many are experiencing long term effects from the disease.  There have been no deaths from the vaccine, and the side effects, if any, pass within a few days.

Don’t get the vaccine if you have chronic medical conditions.

There are no indications that you shouldn’t get the vaccine if you have a chronic medical condition. Some conditions such as autoimmune diseases, or diseases that weaken the immune system can decrease the effectiveness of the vaccine, but will still provide some protection.

Don’t get the vaccine if you’ve already have COVID-19.

You can still get the vaccine if you’ve already had COVID-19. While you do get a certain immunity level after having COVID-19, it is not known to what level of protection you have and for how long that immunity will last. There is a more consistent level of efficacy known with the vaccine.

Don’t get the vaccine if you take certain medications.

There are no indications that you shouldn’t get the vaccine if you take certain medications. Steroids might possibly decrease the effectiveness of the vaccine if taken right before you get the vaccine so consult with your provider. If you have received an antibody infusion for COVID disease, it is recommended to wait at least 90 days prior to getting the vaccine.

Don’t get the vaccine if pregnant or breast feeding.

Both the CDC and American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology agree; the vaccine is beneficial, as there is a higher risk of getting severe disease symptoms from COVID-19 when pregnant.  The vaccine is not expressed in breast milk, so there are no problems with breastfeeding.

The vaccine can alter your DNA.

mRNA vaccines such as the SARS COVID-19 vaccine are unable to enter the nucleus of cells. It is not possible for mRNA to become part of your genetic DNA and it is not possible for this vaccine to rewrite any of your genetic material.  mRNA creates proteins that look like the virus to make your immune system react and prevent future infections, then goes away.