More on the vaccines
The FDA’S main messages about vaccines it has approved:
■ Both the new Moderna vaccine and the Pfizer-biontech shot require two doses several weeks apart. The second dose must be from the same company as the first.
■ In a study of 30,000 volunteers, the Moderna vaccine was more than 94 percent effective at preventing symptomatic COVID-19 in people 18 and older. It also strongly protected older adults, who are most vulnerable.
■ The inoculated can’t throw away their masks, as it’s not yet clear either vaccine prevents silent, symptomless virus spread. But there was a hint that Moderna’s shot might provide some protection against asymptomatic infection.
■ The Moderna study uncovered no major safety problems. Like with the Pfizer-biontech shot, expect sore arms, fever, fatigue and muscle aches, which are signs the immune system is revving up.
■ Both vaccines carry “a remote chance” of causing a severe allergic reaction. Moderna’s study turned up none of these, though a handful were reported in Britain and Alaska as the PfizerBiontech vaccinations got underway. The vaccines’ ingredients aren’t identical. Still, after any COVID-19 vaccination, people should stick around for 15 minutes — or 30 minutes if they have a history of severe allergies — so if they do have a reaction, it can be treated immediately.
■ Both vaccines remain experimental, and the government is closely monitoring safety in case rare problems crop up.
■ Additional studies are needed to tell if the vaccine should be used by pregnant women and children. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should discuss whether to get the vaccine with their doctor.