Amid the ongoing pandemic crisis, the only relief lies in the fact that those above 18 would be eligible to get their first COVID-19 vaccine from May 1st. However, the COVID situation in India continues to worsen by the day. Our system is collapsing and our healthcare heroes are exhausted. It’s high time that we drop everything else and take charge of the situation and do whatever is possible to curb the spread of the virus. That’s exactly why vaccination is our top priority and the only hope right now. Sadly, a lot of misinformation and rumors are also being peddled against it at the moment.
From discouraging menstruating women from getting the shot to scary rumours about its side effects, a lot of myths around the COVID-19 vaccine are being circulated. However, the need of the hour is to put an end to all of this misinformation. Here’s debunking nine common vaccine myths. Scroll down to read vaccine facte:
Debunking 9 Common COVID-19 Vaccine Myths
The COVID-19 vaccines are here to ease our fight against the virus and it is vital that we opt for them at the moment. However, before you go for your first jab, here are a few common COVID-19 vaccine myths debunked:
Myth: The Vaccines Is Ineffective
Fact: The COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective. For those worried about re-infections, there are reduced adverse outcomes and the need to hospitalise even if you get infected after vaccination.
Myth: The COVID-19 Vaccine Alters Your DNA
Fact: The CDC website clearly states that “COVID-19 vaccines do not change or interact with your DNA in any way.” There are mainly two types of COVID-19 vaccines that are in circulation: messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines and a viral vector vaccine. Both mRNA and viral vector COVID-19 vaccines deliver instructions (genetic material) to our cells which then start building protection against the COVID-19 virus. However, this material does not enter the nucleus of the cell where our DNA is kept. This clearly implies that the vaccines cannot affect or interact with our DNA.
Myth: Vaccines Is harmful For Those With Diabetes, Blood Pressure & Kidney Problems, Cancer Survivors
Fact: Patients with these co-morbidities should be given the vaccine on priority.
Myth: We Might Get COVID-19 From The Vaccine
Fact: No, you can’t get COVID-19 from the vaccine because it does not contain the live virus.
Myth: We Should Not Get The Vaccine During Periods Because Our Immunity Is low
Fact: You can get the vaccine when you are menstruating because your immunity is not low during your periods. Menstruation does not affect vaccine safety and efficacy.
Myth: If You Have Contracted COVID-19 Once, You Don’t Need It
Fact: COVID-19 reinfection is possible and has been reported. MU Health organisation states that “If you have already had COVID-19, there’s evidence that you can still benefit from the vaccine. At this time, experts don’t know how long someone is protected from getting sick again after recovering from COVID-19. The immunity someone gains from having an infection, called natural immunity, varies from person to person. Some early evidence suggests natural immunity may not last very long.”
Myth: There Is No Need To Use Masks Or Practise Social Distancing After Getting The Vaccine
Fact: Unfortunately, getting vaccinated does not imply that we can go back to our “normal” lives. For now, the vaccine is just an added layer of protection against COVID-19. We’d have to keep doing this until we reach the herd immunity stage and for that 50% to 80% of our population will need to be vaccinated.
Myth: COVID-19 Vaccine Will Make You Infertile
Fact: There exists NO scientific evidence to prove that the COVID-19 vaccine affects fertility. The vaccines have been created while considering possible hazards.
Myth: Pregnant Women Or Breastfeeding Mothers Should Not Take The Vaccine
Fact: “Because the vaccines do not contain live virus, they should not affect the baby or the placenta. After antibodies form, these can help protect the newborn since they are too young to get their own vaccine,” says Laura Morris, MD, in a study by MU Health Care. However, pregnant and breastfeeding women must discuss the vaccine with their doctor, and thus make an informed decision.
Well, now that all the vaccination myths have been debunked, we hope that you do your part to curb the spread of the virus. So register for your COVID-19 shots ASAP. Lastly, fam, remember to stay safe and stay at home until going out is necessary. And in case you have to go out, do not forget your mask and sanitizer.
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