Frequently Asked Questions about COVID-19 Vaccination

  We know that there are questions regarding the vaccines that protect us against COVID-19. We have partnered with the Puerto Rico Health Trust to provide you with this important information.

1. When will the pandemic end?

 The coronavirus pandemic may end when herd immunity is achieved. This means that more than 2 million of Puerto Rico’s population must be vaccinated against COVID-19 for the disease to be controlled.

2. Can the COVID-19 vaccines transmit the virus?

None of the available COVID-19 vaccines use the virus to create immunity. 3. How do these COVID-19 vaccines work? Vaccines train your immune system to produce antibodies that help fight the virus if you are exposed. 4. What are antibodies? Antibodies are the defenses that our bodies generate to stop a virus infection.

5. Can the COVID-19 vaccine alter our DNA (genetic makeup)?

No. The RNA messenger cannot combine itself with your DNA to change your genetic makeup.

6. How were the COVID-19 vaccines developed so quickly?

The new technology used in the creation of the vaccine did not require the use of parts of the virus. Other factors, such cooperation within the scientific community, worldwide urgency, and the economic contributions of different countries, made it possible to test these vaccines in more than 70,000 people around the world.

7. Do vaccines cause immunity?

No. The vaccine helps prevent severe symptoms caused by COVID-19, but it does not prevent the infection process.

8. Which COVID-19 vaccines are available in the United States?

Pfizer/BioNtech

• Two doses; the second one after 21 days
• Studied in 43,548 people
• 95% effective
• Recommended age - over 16

Moderna

• Two doses; the second one after 28 days
• Studied in 30,420 people
• 94.1% effective
• Recommended age - over 18

Johnson & Johnson

• One dose
• Studied in 44,325 people
• 72% effective
• Recommended age - over 18

9. Are there any side effects?

The reported side effects are to be expected since the vaccine is creating an immune response. Some reported effects are:

• Chills
• Pain and redness at the injection site
• Fatigue
• Muscular pain
• Joint pain
• Headache
• Other

10. Should I get vaccinated if I already had COVID-19?  Yes. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that you get vaccinated against COVID-19, even if you already had it, as there is a possibility of reinfection.   11. Who should consult a physician before taking the vaccine?

• Individuals with a compromised immune system
• Individuals with a history of allergic reactions to vaccines
• Pregnant women and nursing mothers (Although it has been reported that they can be vaccinated)

12. Will I need to continue to wear a face mask after vaccination? Yes. We all need to continue to use every available tool to help stop this pandemic, while learning more about the protection that vaccines provide.

As long as we have life, we will have a future. Get vaccinated.

For more information visit prsciencetrust.org/prpht