To protect against COVID-19, it is important to get a vaccine as immunity from previous infection and vaccination can wane over time. Currently, there are three COVID vaccines available in the United States, including the Moderna, Pfizer-BioNTech, and Novavax vaccines. The main purpose of these vaccines is not to prevent infection but to protect individuals after an infection, reducing the risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and death. The FDA has approved updated mRNA Pfizer and Moderna boosters, as well as the Novavax COVID vaccine, to better target the current circulating variants in the community.
The mRNA COVID vaccines work by causing the body to create a harmless protein similar to one found in the coronavirus, triggering an immune response that produces antibodies against COVID-19. The Novavax vaccine, on the other hand, already contains a specially formulated, harmless protein that prompts the body to create antibodies against the coronavirus and includes an adjuvant to boost the immune system’s response. Both types of vaccines are effective in protecting against severe illness from COVID-19.
The Pfizer and Moderna vaccines are safe and have similar effectiveness in preventing COVID-19 illness. They have been updated multiple times to protect against different variants, including the omicron variant. Both vaccines have gone through intense safety monitoring and are generally well-tolerated with common side effects such as injection site pain, fatigue, headache, and fever. Rare side effects include severe allergic reactions and myocarditis, although the risk of these complications is lower with vaccination compared to COVID infection.
The Novavax vaccine is the only non-mRNA COVID-19 vaccine approved in the U.S. and has been authorized for individuals ages 12 and older. The original vaccine was 90% effective against symptomatic COVID-19 infection and 100% effective against moderate and severe disease. The updated vaccine targets multiple variant strains circulating in the community and has been found to provide immunity against these strains.
There is no preference for one vaccine over the others by the CDC or FDA, as they are all considered safe and effective. Recent research has shown that both mRNA and Novavax vaccines have similar levels of effectiveness, with both being more than 90% effective against SARS-CoV-2 in adults. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and the recommendation of a healthcare provider when choosing a COVID vaccine. Special populations, such as immunocompromised individuals and pregnant women, should stay up-to-date with their vaccinations and consult with their healthcare provider to determine the best vaccine for their individual situation.
Vaccines.gov is a helpful resource to find locations near you where you can receive a COVID vaccine. Additionally, you can visit the Pfizer, Moderna, or Novavax websites to locate pharmacies with vaccines available. Getting vaccinated is crucial in protecting yourself and others from COVID-19 and reducing the risk of severe illness and complications associated with the virus.
