Given the delta variant’s current situation, COVID-19 vaccination has become really urgent now. Even with multiple authorized and recommended COVID-19 vaccines, the United States vaccine drive couldn’t meet the minimum 50% immunization criteria nationwide. The severe situation with the delta variant can’t really be underestimated at this point when each state across the U.S. is struggling with the rising number of delta-driven cases. Being in such a pivotal moment in this pandemic, our government is looking forward to a downtrend in cases with increasing vaccination rates. That means unvaccinated individuals may have many questions and concerns regarding the available COVID-19 vaccines. In this blog post, we have put together FAQs on the COVID-19 vaccine and delta variant.

Here are the answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about the COVID-19 vaccines.

Why should I get vaccinated now?

Delta is the dominating variant:

In the last few weeks, our first case of the delta variant in the U.S. in March grew into the dominant strain with a growing number of cases than expected. States and counties with low vaccination rates are now struggling with high hospitalization among unvaccinated.

50% More Contagious:

The delta variant is 50% more contagious than the previous strains that the U.S. has experienced so far. This new strain can infect a fully vaccinated individual. However, vaccinated individuals have been reported to have milder symptoms.  

Severe Symptoms:

Unlike the original coronavirus strain, the delta is causing more severe illness leading to a high number of hospitalizations and ICU admissions. If this leads to another wave of pandemic, it will be more serious, and that’s concerning.

While a COVID-19 vaccine will not make you immune to the viral infection, it will help with reducing the severity of the infection. Considering the severe symptoms associated with the delta strain, experts advise taking a COVID-19 vaccination as soon as possible.

COVID-19 Vaccine and Delta Variant FAQS

Can I catch COVID-19 from the vaccine?

The COVID-19 vaccine is not an alive, attenuated virus like the flu shot. All COVID-19 vaccines are formulated with an mRNA technology or from a cold virus. Therefore, it is not possible to catch COVID-19 from the vaccine.

How effective are current vaccines against the delta variant?

The messenger RNA-based vaccine (Moderna and Pfizer) is proven to be highly effective against the SARS-CoV delta variant. Clinical studies and laboratory test reports suggest up to 88% efficacy and adequate immune response to this strain. Therefore, it’s still essential to take COVID-19 vaccines.

How many shots of the COVID-19 vaccine will be needed?

Based on the vaccine you are administered, up to two injections may be required.

What are the risks of not getting vaccinated now?

Many of the population didn’t take the COVID-19 vaccination because of the fear of experiencing extreme side effects. Based on clinical trials and vaccinated people’s experiences, all COVID-19 vaccinations exhibit mild side effects. These vaccines are incredibly safe and help fight the virus effectively. If exposed to the delta strain, unvaccinated individuals may get severely sick and hospitalized.

Can I get another vaccine at the same time as the COVID-19 vaccine?

It is not advisable to take another vaccine at the same time as the coronavirus vaccine. Experts suggest waiting for at least 14 days before getting a flu shot or a shingles vaccine. As per the CDC’s latest recommendations, you must complete the COVID-19 vaccine schedule if given inadvertently within 14-days of another vaccine.

Why do I feel sick after getting a vaccine?

It is normal to feel sore or develop symptoms like fever, chills, and body aches after taking a vaccine. Although not everyone will experience the same symptoms, these signs indicate that the vaccine is triggering an immune response. After the body recognizes a foreign threat, it acts against it to fend off the virus or viral particles.

Why should I trust a vaccine that was developed so quickly?

All the vaccines that are FDA authorized and approved under emergency usage authorizations have gone through a strict trial comprising of three steps. These vaccines were mass-tested before getting approved for public administration. Although the COVID-19 vaccine is the fastest developed vaccine globally, it has been tested based on many factors. Because of the anticipated demand for a coronavirus vaccine, companies made the vaccine much sooner than they typically do while significantly reducing the time between approval and availability. These two factors, however, do not affect the efficacy or safety of the vaccine.

How soon after vaccination will I be protected from COVID-19?

Any vaccine, after its administration, takes about two weeks or more to offer full protection. For mRNA-based vaccines, it is two weeks after the second dose.

Do I need to continue wearing a mask after getting vaccinated?

Getting a COVID-19 vaccine will help you build immunity against the virus. However, it is not yet proven whether the vaccine protects against transmission to other people. With social distance and by wearing a mask, we can protect our vulnerable family members, friends, and others from getting sick. Visit CDC’s newest mask policy page for more details.

Should any groups not get the COVID-19 vaccine?

The COVID-19 vaccine is currently not approved for children under the age of 16, the severely immunocompromised, and individuals with severe allergic reactions. A few of the vaccine developers are currently testing the vaccine on the 12-16 age group.

What are the ingredients in COVID-19 vaccines?

The mRNA-based COVID-19 vaccines approved in the United States do not contain any preservatives, eggs, preservatives, or latex. Click on the below links to check the full list of ingredients:

• Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine
• Moderna COVID-19 vaccine

How is the CDC making COVID-19 vaccine recommendations?

The CDC recommendation comes after the FDA approval and ACIP’s public voting on vaccine recommendation. After the Food and Drug Administration authorizes a new COVID-19 vaccine, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) uses a public voting system through a meeting to vote on the vaccine recommendation. Based on ACIP’s inputs, the CDC then publishes vaccine recommendations with supporting data and weekly reports.

I have recovered from a COVID-19 infection. Do I need a vaccine?

Yes. Even after recovering from COVID-19 infections, your body may not be able to fight against reinfection in the future. The immunity after an infection recovery is called “natural immunity.” Scientists are still trying to find more information on both natural and vaccine-induced immunity and their immune response against the virus. Due to the severe health risks associated with the coronavirus disease, everyone should be vaccinated regardless of recovering from a COVID-19 infection. Those who were treated with monoclonal antibodies or convalescent plasma should wait 90 days before getting a COVID-19 vaccine.

What’s the best way to stay protected against delta?

Those with vaccine eligibility must get vaccinated. For kids under 12-years and unvaccinated, the best way to mitigate that risk is to have them wear a mask and follow social distancing rules whenever possible.

I am vaccinated. Now what?

To protect the vulnerable around you, follow these recommendations even after taking a vaccine.

• Wear a mask whenever you are in public and make sure it covers your nose and mouth
• Strictly follow social distance by staying at least 6 feet away from others
• Avoid crowds, especially in poorly ventilated spaces
• Wash your hands often and use hand sanitizers if washing hand is not an option

By taking a vaccination and following CDC’s recommendations, we can help the community fight against COVID-19.

Axiom Medical is Here To Help!

Does your organization need an high volume COVID-19 Vaccination, COVID-19 PCR Testing, and a Workplace Infection Control Program? Axiom Medical can help. With our competent OnSite testing and employee total health program, we can help your organization with workplace healthcare needs. Contact us today to learn more!

Contact Us