Since the beginning of the pandemic, there has been an effort to make one or more COVID-19 vaccines available as soon as possible through Operation Warp Speed. As that vaccine rolls out to our healthcare workers and communities, many people have lingering questions about the safety and effectiveness of the vaccine.
Each of us is our own best health advocate and, often, we are tasked with making health decisions for loved ones too. With so many different claims circulating, it’s more important than ever to have reputable sources to turn to so you can make an informed choice when it’s your turn.
What we know
When it comes to a new vaccine, there are a lot of unknowns. But, fortunately, there is a lot we do know:
- COVID-19 vaccination will help keep you from getting symptomatic infection COVID-19 and also seems to protect from more serious cases of the infection.
- COVID-19 vaccination for yourself may help protect people around you, especially those who are at an increased risk for developing severe illness from COVID-19.
- The known and potential benefits of a COVID-19 vaccine outweigh the known and potential risks of the vaccine. COVID-19 can have serious, life-threatening complications and there is no way to predict how severely it will affect you. Plus, if you get sick, you could spread it to friends, family, and others.
- There is benefit to receiving the vaccine even if you have previously been infected. Reinfection after getting COVID-19 is uncommon in the 90 days after initial infection, but experts don’t know how long this protection lasts. Vaccination will help protect you by creating an antibody response without having to experience sickness.
- The COVID-19 vaccine is an important tool to help stop the pandemic. Wearing masks and social distancing measures help to reduce your chance of being exposed to the virus – and spreading it to others – but stopping a pandemic requires all the tools we have available. A combination of measures will offer the best protection from COVID-19. Vaccines play their part by working with your immune system so your body is ready to fight the virus if you are exposed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions? Dr. Jay Sizemore, the Medical Director of Infection Prevention at Erlanger, offers answers to some of our patients’ frequently asked questions.
Is the vaccine approved by the FDA?
Yes, both the Moderna and Pfizer vaccines have been given an emergency use authorization by the Food and Drug Administration.
How does the vaccine work?
According to the CDC, “COVID-19 vaccines help our bodies develop immunity to the virus that causes COVID-19 without us having to get the illness.”
“Different types of vaccines work in different ways to offer protection, but with all types of vaccines, the body is left with a supply of ‘memory’ T-lymphocytes as well as B-lymphocytes that will remember how to fight that virus in the future.”
In other words, the vaccine helps your body build immunity to the target virus.
I have heard that this vaccine is an mRNA vaccine. What does that mean and will it affect DNA or cause changes in my genes?
mRNA vaccines are the first type of vaccines authorized for use in the United States at this time. Many vaccines put a weakened or inactivated germ into our bodies but mRNA vaccines do not. Instead, they teach our cells how to make one of the viral proteins that triggers an immune response which produces antibodies. Those antibodies protect us from getting infected if the real virus enters the body.
mRNA can’t combine with our DNA to change our genetic code. It is very fragile, has not been observed to interact with the cell nucleus at all, and degrades very quickly after the cell uses it to make the protein.
What are the side effects?
Normal reactions to the vaccine are soreness or swelling at the injection site, fatigue, chills, tiredness, and headache. Some people may experience muscle pain and joint pain as well. These are all signs of immune activation and are signs that your body is building protection. Most of these signs start within 48 hours of getting the vaccine and last less than 48 hours.
Can I get COVID-19 from the vaccine?
No. None of the authorized and recommended COVID-19 vaccines or COVID-19 vaccines currently in development in the United States contain the live virus that causes COVID-19.
Should I be worried about anaphylaxis?
Anyone who carries an Epipen should wait 30 minutes after getting the vaccine to monitor for response.
What about people with weakened immune systems?
People with weakened immune system, such as people with HIV or lupus, and people who have autoimmune conditions should contact their physician to discuss whether or not they should receive the vaccine.
If I have had COVID-19, should I still get the vaccine?
Yes. Don’t get it while you’re still sick, but it is advised to get both doses of the vaccine before the 90 day “immunity period” is up.
Can pregnant women get the vaccine?
There were no adverse effects of the vaccine in pregnant women in the trials, so there should be no risk for fetal development. We do know that COVID-19 infection during pregnancy and breastfeeding comes with risks so we advise using this as an opportunity to discuss your concerns with your doctor and make a confident decision regarding your vaccination together.
Does the vaccine impact fertility?
COVID-19 vaccination is not believed to affect future fertility.
Can I go see family right after I get the first dose, or can they now visit me?
After getting the vaccine, mitigation strategies currently recommended will need to be continued for non-household contact including extended family. Those strategies include masking, social distancing, and hand hygiene.
Can I stop wearing a mask?
While the vaccine is more than 90% effective, the trial only measured symptomatic cases. Experts predict that we will continue to use masks as a method of transmission reduction until we reach a level of herd immunity in which COVID-19 is no longer considered a major public health issue.
When I get the vaccine, will I be instantly protected?
Protection from a vaccine doesn’t happen instantly. In general, as long as you receive both doses, you can expect to reach the full level of immunity offered by the vaccine within several weeks after your first shot.
Is transmission still possible even when someone has been vaccinated? For example, can a healthcare worker who has been vaccinated still bring the virus home from a patient to their family?
Data has not yet been released on whether or not the vaccines offer what is known as “sterilizing immunity,” which means that those who are vaccinated can’t contract or pass on the virus at all. So, until we know more, there is a possibility that even people who have been vaccinated can become asymptomatically infected and spread the virus to others who have not received the vaccine.
Can kids get the vaccine?
At this time, the vaccine is not offered to those under the age of 18 (Moderna) and 16 (Pfizer), but it could potentially be available for children in advance of the new school year in the fall.
Do I have to get the same vaccine for the second time?
Yes, stick with the same manufacturer for both doses. For example, if you get Pfizer for your first done, get Pfizer for your second.
How long will the vaccine last?
Exact length of protection is not clear, but studies predict that it could last for years. The need for “booster” or annual vaccines is currently unknown. Stay tuned!
What if I miss my second dose or can’t make it to an appointment on Day 21?
There is no need to start over if you are not able to get the second dose exactly 3 weeks after your first dose.
Do I need to take the day off when I get the vaccine?
Side effects tend to occur the night of the vaccination and the next day and all tend to be mild. Symptoms do tend to be worse after the second dose. If feasible, receiving the vaccine just ahead of a day off is advisable just in case.
Remember, most of these symptoms are indicators that the immune system is working to generate the response it will need if natural infection is encountered.
Does this vaccine protect against new strains of the virus that have been identified in the region?
The currently available vaccines are expected to be active against the recently isolated new strains.
Have other questions? Ask in the comments!
If you want to receive the vaccine, the best first step is to check with your local health department or doctor. Don’t have a doctor? Find one here.
I am allergic to the preservative Thimerosal. Is it used in either of the vaccines?
Hi Beth, great question! Neither vaccine contains thimerosal.
I have severe tinnitus, most drugs make it worse, I also have IC with continuous bladder infections, antibiotics give me fever blisters and other side effects like make my blood pressure elevate. Dyes in drugs affect me, sensitive to most. Haven’t taken a flu shot since 2011 because it gave me the flu, haven’t had the flu since. I am 82 years old and would like to take the COVID vaccination but am afraid too. I also had my sciatic nerve stitched after a rectocele surgery and drugs affect that. Can you advise me? Thank you so much,
Hi Dorothy, we recommend you speak to your doctor about your concerns. He or she can help you arrive at a decision that is most specific to your needs.
NC has approved Phase 3 other essential workers but the Health Dpt refuses to take reservations to be vaccinated. Will Erlanger provide the vaccination ?
Some providers are giving vaccines. Speak to your provider to discuss options. — Dr. James Sizemore
How long after you are diagnosed with covid should you quarantine and do you need to get tested before you go out in public to see if you have a negative result?
From the CDC:
Learn more here: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/if-you-are-sick/end-home-isolation.html
I am 67 years old and I have had gastric bypass surgery . Has my immune system been affected by the surgery? My Dr said I should be ok with taking the Vacine the only meds I am on are vitamins and eye drops for Glycoma. Thanks
Dr. Sizemore recommends that you get the vaccine.
Do you offer the Plasma Antibodies treatments?
We offer monoclonal antibody infusions through our emergency department. — Dr. Jay Sizemore
Does either vaccine contain a sulfur compound, I’m allergic to anything that has this. Also had triple bypass surgery the day before Thanksgiving and taking a lot of meds right now. Supposed to get the first shot in a couple days just a little nervous about it after going through this so recently.
No. — Dr. Jay Sizemore
“Experts predict that we will continue to use masks as a method of transmission until we reach a level of herd immunity in which COVID-19 is no longer considered a major public health issue.”
Pardon me, but dont you mean experts predict that we will continue to use masks as a method of CONTROLING transmission?
As the sentence stands now…you say masks are a method of transmission
Thanks for catching that, Louis! That is correct. Masks will be continue to be recommended as a method of transmission prevention.
When will people who are considered high risk due to chronic heart disease be able to get the vaccine? Is there currently any priority for high risk patients?
Thanks!
When we get to 1C level vaccination rounds. We are currently finishing 1A. Thanks! — Dr. Jay Sizemore
I have Phase 4 lung cancer. Should I take a covid vaccine?
Yes. — Dr. Jay Sizemore
When I received the first Shringix vaccine I developed transverse myelitis which put me in the hospital and caused me much pain for nearly 2 months. I’d rather risk Covid infection than go thru that again. What are my risks with these vaccines that I could develop the same auto immune reaction?
Unknown, but unlikely. — Dr. Jay Sizemore
What makes the antibodies in the vaccine better than actually having Covid-19?
I’m not convinced we know that statement is correct. Duration of immunity from natural infection, vaccination, or a combination of both are still being studied. — Dr. Jay Sizemore
Since these types of vaccines have never been successfully used in human beings, what are the possible long adverse effects of mRNA and adenoviral vector type vaccines?
Largely unknown. Though expect to be minimal based on science. — Dr. Jay Sizemore
Will Erlanger Health offer the Covid vaccine to patients within their network of clinics?
Stay tuned. Largely depends on distribution plans of federal and state authorities. — Dr. Jay Sizemore
I am 71 and am just recovering from shingles. Should I take the vaccine? How long should I wait to take the vaccine after the shingles?
I would move forward with vaccination. — Dr. Jay Sizemore
Friends in the 65 – 75 age group in GA, NC, SC, TX and FLA have gotten the vaccine. My wife and I are in that group in Hamilton County. Why haven’t we gotten the vaccine and when will we be able to?
I would continue to check with the health department. Due to limited supplies, their appointment slots for those over age 75 are still filling. — Dr. Jay Sizemore
I wish Erlanger could offer vaccines for the spouse of staff soon, especially front line medical doctors and nurses’s spouse!
We will continue to follow the phased approach as outlined by the Tennessee Department of Health for now. — Dr. Jay Sizemore
I am a volunteer in the Moderna Covid-19 vaccine phase 3 trials. I am 67, a type-2 diabetic, with other health issues that make me a prime candidate for infection. I did get the actual vaccine, not a placebo, which was confirmed by my test center when participants were given confirmation we received the vaccine or the placebo. For me, the side effects for the Moderna Covid-19 vaccine were very mild and short lived.
Considering the problems with the public administration and shortages of Covid-19 vaccines, I consider myself blessed to have gotten the actual vaccine.
Thank you for participating in the trial. I am happy you received the vaccine with minimal side effects. — Dr. Jay Sizemore
My mom is 75 and she is allergic to flu shot and she also has a lot of allergies. Is the vaccine safe for her?
Please consult with her provider. She will need to be monitored for 30 minutes after receiving the vaccine. — Dr. Jay Sizemore
I cannot take the flu shot due to being allergic to eggs. Can I take the COVID vaccine?
Yes. As a side note, egg allergy is not a contraindication to influenza vaccination. There are even egg-free flu vaccines. — Dr. Jay Sizemore
I I am 69 years old and have a compromised immune system when can I get my vaccine?
We recommend you speak with your provider.
I live in Georgia but am part of the Erlanger health Care system. When available can I get a vaccination in tennessee?
The answer at this time is unknown as the county health department is largely controlling the distribution rules for the vaccine. Hospital, community health center, physician practices, and pharmacies likely will play a larger role moving forward. — Dr. Jay Sizemore
My mother and daughter have both contracted GBS and so I have heard that Astra-Zeneca’s vaccine should be avoided. I do avoid most flu vaccines due to this risk. Are there any other COVID-19 vaccines that I should avoid? I know Pfizer and Moderna are safe for me.
No, not at this time. — Dr. Jay Sizemore
If you have RA and have an Orencia infusion once a month , can you take the vaccine and if so how long should you wait between infusion and vaccine?
Yes, you can take the vaccine. It is unknown what the optimal timing is with this medication. I would consult with your prescribing provider. — Dr. Jay Sizemore
I am 64 years old and will turn 65 in September of this year. I am retired, therefore, not an essential employee or a health care worker. When is it likely that the vaccine will be available to my age group?
Check with your local or state health departments for their plans.
I tested positive for COVID and the day I got the results, I received a Monoclonal Antibody infusion. It has kept me from being very ill. How long should I wait before I get the vaccine? I am 73 y/o I. A couple weeks. I have artificial heart valves and CHF. Will the antibodies I received interfere with the vaccine?
Dr. Sizemore recommends that you wait 90 days.
I am allergic to minocycline, morphine, & codeine.
Is it safe to take the vaccine having allergic reaction to these medications?
Yes — Dr. Jay Sizemore
Does your response that it is safe to take if allergic to minocycline, morphine, and codeine apply to all 3 vaccines or one specific brand?
This applies to all three (assuming J&J returns from pause), talk to your provider if you have additional questions. — Dr. James Sizemore
I tested positive for COVID and I took the monoclonal antibody infusion. How long after my quarantine is over should I wait to take the vaccine?
Dr. Sizemore recommends that you wait 90 days.
Is it harmful to in any way to take Tylenol or Advil prior to. Vaccine? And then afterwords .., could this prevent side effects or have any effect on vaccine
I am unaware of a correlation between vaccine efficacy and use of these medications. I chose to avoid both which I might otherwise take for aches and pains. My side effects were mild. There was a theoretical concern in my mind of a dampened immune response particularly with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like Advil. If I had had more significant aches or pains after getting the vaccine, I would have used acetaminophen (Tylenol) as a first line treatment. — Dr. Jay Sizemore
If the side effects of the vaccine mean the vaccine is working, what does that mean for people who get the vaccine and don’t feel any side effects? Is their immune system not being activated?
I am not aware that there is a correlation between adverse events and response to the vaccine. We each have unique aspects of our immune response that will lead to variable symptoms in some. — Dr. Jay Sizemore
Hi Dr Sizemore, I was one of your patients back in Oct and Nov 2019 and early 2020. I am a liver transplant patient (transplant date: Oct 15, 2017 from UAB). You treated me for an airborne fungal infection that affected my lungs, kidneys, and donor’s liver. Of course, on autoimmune suppressant meds. I am currently fairly well isolated at home with very few outside contacts, but a few. Of course, masked and social distancing the few times I’m out. Just wondering your view concerning whether or not I should wait on Johnson and Johnson vaccine that is a more traditional dead cell type vaccine. Seems like the transplant community is divided about which vaccine is better or to be vaccinated at all. Once again thanks for saving my life back in 2019! I’m feeling and doing fantastic these days.
Great to hear you are doing well. I would take the first vaccine that is available to you. — Dr. Jay Sizemore
I have a breast implant as a result of breast cancer 10 years ago. Also, a heart stent from heart cath in 2017. Would these artificial parts in my body cause a reaction from taking the vaccine? Thank you.
We recommend you speak with your provider.
I was wondering if after getting the Moderna vaccine if it is alright to rub the injection site right away to avoid soreness as with other vaccines?
I received my 2nd Moderna vaccine last Wed Feb 10th. Next day I have a odd taste in my mouth, everything food and drinks especially water taste terrible. Not sick, no fever. Is this normal? How long does it last? It is getting on my nerves. Thank you
Hi Mamie, please speak with your doctor about your symptoms if they persist.
My son 33 years old has had a liver transplant several years ago and take anti rejection meds. Is it safe for him to get the vaccine?
Hi Terry, we recommend that he speaks with his doctor to help make the right decision specific to his situation.
i have received my first vaccine for covid, and have scheduled my second.
i also need to get shingles vaccine. i also need to get my shingles vaccine.
do i need to wait to get shingles vaccine, or can i get that at any time?
Hi Red, please speak with your primary care physician about the right time to get your shingles vaccine.
I know when i got my covid shot i was told to wait 30 days before even getting the flu shot. so i am sure someone will recommend a waiting time
so you should consult your doctor about if there should be a waiting period.
If I have received my COVID vaccination and then have been exposed to COVID do I have to quarantine?
Or is there a certain time after the vaccination that I don’t have to quarantine if exposed?
If you are fully vaccinated (2 weeks out from your last vaccine), you do not have to quarantine if you are exposed and asymptomatic. — Dr. James Sizemore
Can you get the Pfizer vaccine if I am allergic to morphine?
Yes. — Dr. James Sizemore
Had a stent implant 1 week ago when can I get the vaccine?
Hi Judy, we recommend consulting your physician for guidance.
I have an ellergy to morphine so will that affect me getting the covid19 vaccine
Hi Mike, please speak to your doctor about your concerns.
I had an anaphylaxis reaction to morphine can I take the J&J?
Hi Nancy, we recommend speaking to your physician about any of your concerns.
Hi, I wonder if someone can help me, My step son is on Morphine, Clonazepam, Gabapentin, Baclofen, Risperdon, Sodium Valperoate, Paracetamol, midazolam, Cloecalciferol, Docusate Sodium, Sennosideb, Enoxaparin Sodium, flocic acid, Mirtazapine, Mvite, Omeprazole, Potassium Chloride.
Hes disabled, blind, and non verbal, Cerbal Pulasy, and Autisic .. my question is I want to know if he can have the COVID vaccine with all this other medication.
Its really important that we get a answer, as the residential care home, are pushing to get it done.
Hi Molly, please speak with your stepson’s physician for the best guidance.