#mRNA #vaccines, like those developed for #COVID-19 by Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna, work by using #messenger #RNA (mRNA) to instruct cells in the body to produce a harmless piece of the spike protein found on the surface of the #SARS-CoV-2 virus. Here’s a breakdown of how they work:
1. Introduction of mRNA: The vaccine contains synthetic mRNA that encodes the instructions for making the spike protein.
2. Cell Uptake: Once injected, the mRNA enters cells, where the cellular machinery reads the instructions and begins producing the spike protein.
3. Immune Response: The presence of this protein triggers the immune system to recognize it as foreign, leading to the production of antibodies and activating T-cells. This prepares the immune system to respond more effectively if the body encounters the actual virus in the future.
4. Degradation: After the spike protein is made, the mRNA is broken down and eliminated by the body, leaving no permanent change to the person's #DNA.
As for safety and efficacy, extensive clinical trials and real-world studies have shown that mRNA vaccines are effective in preventing COVID-19, particularly severe illness, hospitalization, and death. They have undergone rigorous testing for safety, and common side effects, such as soreness at the injection site, fatigue, and mild fever, are generally mild and temporary. Serious side effects are rare.
A new booster COVID-19 vaccine by Moderna for new emerging strains in 2025 and 2026 is now available. Ask your #Pharmacist or Physician for availability in your area and if you should revveive the new vaccine this year.
Overall, health authorities like the CDC and WHO have deemed mRNA COVID-19 vaccines safe and effective for the population.
1. Introduction of mRNA: The vaccine contains synthetic mRNA that encodes the instructions for making the spike protein.
2. Cell Uptake: Once injected, the mRNA enters cells, where the cellular machinery reads the instructions and begins producing the spike protein.
3. Immune Response: The presence of this protein triggers the immune system to recognize it as foreign, leading to the production of antibodies and activating T-cells. This prepares the immune system to respond more effectively if the body encounters the actual virus in the future.
4. Degradation: After the spike protein is made, the mRNA is broken down and eliminated by the body, leaving no permanent change to the person's #DNA.
As for safety and efficacy, extensive clinical trials and real-world studies have shown that mRNA vaccines are effective in preventing COVID-19, particularly severe illness, hospitalization, and death. They have undergone rigorous testing for safety, and common side effects, such as soreness at the injection site, fatigue, and mild fever, are generally mild and temporary. Serious side effects are rare.
A new booster COVID-19 vaccine by Moderna for new emerging strains in 2025 and 2026 is now available. Ask your #Pharmacist or Physician for availability in your area and if you should revveive the new vaccine this year.
Overall, health authorities like the CDC and WHO have deemed mRNA COVID-19 vaccines safe and effective for the population.