Debunking Myths About the COVID-19 Vaccines

As of April 21, more than 217 million people worldwide have been completely vaccinated against COVID-19, accounting for just 2.7 per cent of the global population. Vaccination drives are being ramped up all over the world to fight the pandemic. The Chinese government is providing free groceries to those who get vaccinated. In the US, actors Zoe Saldana and Benicio del Toro are interviewing experts and releasing bilingual videos to encourage Latino, Black and other minority groups to get vaccinated.

 

Many are still hesitant about taking the vaccine. In this blog, we look at some of the most common myths surrounding the vaccine and set the record straight.

Myth: The vaccine is unsafe because it was developed and released too quickly.

 

Fact: The vaccines rolled out now are both safe and effective even though they were produced and brought to market in record time. They have gone through the same stringent testing process as other vaccines and have met all the safety requirements. The shorter period is a result of unprecedented global cooperation in the vaccine development and production process.

 

Myth: If one has had COVID-19, they already have the antibodies and do not need the vaccine. 

 

Fact: Scientists currently have no way of knowing how long one's natural immunity, which acts as protection from an infection after recovering from it, lasts in the case of COVID-19. With this in mind, it is a sensible idea to get the vaccine.

 

Myth: Once vaccinated, we do not need to wear a mask. 

 

Fact: Masking, handwashing and physical distancing are still needed before many people are immune and we reach herd immunity. People can go without masks only indoors when gathering with others who are fully vaccinated.

 

Myth: The mRNA-based vaccines vaccine alters our DNA.

Fact: When the mRNA-based vaccines enters the body, it leads to the production of the virus spike protein. The body's immune system recognises this protein and produces antibodies to fight it. At no point does the vaccine enter the cell's nucleus, where our DNA is stored. The body then quickly disposes of the mRNA once the process is complete.  

 

Myth: We can get COVID-19 from the vaccine.

 

Fact: One cannot contract COVID-19 from the approved vaccines in the market as it does not contain the live virus.

 

Myth: The vaccine causes infertility in women.

Fact: As the vaccine causes the body to attack syncytin-1, a protein found in the placenta, some believe it can lead to infertility in women. However, the spike protein and the placental protein share only an amino acid sequence. Experts believe that the virus does not spend enough time in the body to trigger such an extreme response and therefore has little effect on fertility. Pregnant women who want to be vaccinated should also be given the vaccine, according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists. Despite its limitations, the evidence on the vaccine's effect on pregnancy does not raise any safety concerns. However, it is advisable that pregnant and lactating women consult their doctors and make an informed decision about getting the vaccine.

Myth: Unless one is at risk for severe complications of COVID-19, they do not need the vaccine.

Fact: You can contract the infection and spread it to others regardless of your risk. So, it is essential to get vaccinated as it is not only for your safety but also for the safety of those around you.

 

Millions of people have been vaccinated and are being monitored all over the world. In combination with masks and social distancing, the vaccine is still the safest way to avoid infection.