WHO IS ELIGIBLE FOR THE PFIZER VACCINE?

 

INTRODUCTION:

            One of the vaccines that can protect against covid-19 is the Pfizer vaccine. According to studies, it is very effective among those aged 16 and up. It's a vaccination based on mRNA. This vaccine was developed by Pfizer Inc., one of the world's top biopharmaceutical firms, and BioNTech, a German biotechnology company. Comirnaty is the brand name for it.

DOSAGE:

            According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC),The vaccination is given in two doses, with the second dosage occurring approximately 21 days following the first. However, it is possible that the second dose will not be given until 6 weeks after the first.

HOW PFIZER VACCINE WORK?

           The vaccination works by instilling in cells new molecules known as mRNA (messenger RNA). This molecule instructs cells to produce protein from the SARS-COV-2 virus, which causes COVID-19. The body recognizes this protein and produces antibodies in response, which remain in the body as a defense against future virus attacks.

Learn more about how mRNA vaccine works.

WHO CAN HAVE PFIZER VACCINE?

         This vaccination will be available to the majority of people. Some people, however, may need to avoid it for their own safety.

        People who have had a severe or acute adverse reaction to any element in an mRNA COVID-19 vaccine, such as polyethylene glycol (PEG) or polysorbate, should not acquire the Pfizer vaccine, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)Trusted Source.

        An instantaneous allergic reaction, according to the CDC, is one that occurs within 4 hours of exposure and causes symptoms such as: hives, edoema, wheezing, or breathing problems

       People who have experienced allergic reactions to other vaccines should speak with a healthcare professional before getting a COVID-19 vaccine.

           People should also speak with a doctor before getting the Pfizer vaccine if they have:

·         Other allergies

•          A fever
•          A bleeding disorder or take medications to thin the blood
•          A compromised immune system or take medication that affects the immune system
•          Are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding
•          Have already received another COVID-19 vaccine

EFFECTIVENESS OF VACCINE:

        "Effectiveness" refers to how well a vaccine works in real-life settings. This was true for patients of all ages, sexes, races, nationalities, and body weights, as well as those with underlying medical issues and those who had previously been infected with SARS-CoV-2.

          According to Medical News Today, the findings of clinical trials are supported by a big research on the Pfizer vaccination involving roughly 1.2 million patients in Israel. It shows that two doses of the vaccination minimise symptomatic COVID-19 cases by 94 percent across all age categories after seven days. In addition, the immunisation decreases serious disease by 92 percent.

EFFECTIVENESS IN CASE OF NEW VARIANTS:

           New SARS-CoV-2 virus types have developed in several parts of the world. While this is alarming, it is to be expected because viruses evolve over time. The Pfizer vaccine is anticipated to remain effective against current variations..

SIDE EFFECTS:

             Some people may experience temporary side effects after receiving the Pfizer vaccine, which may last a few days. These include:

•          Pain and swelling around the injection site
•          Chills
•          Fever
•          A headache
•         Tiredness 

Usually, these side effects indicate that the vaccine is working and are signs that the immune system is responding to it.

Less commonly, people experience:

•          Muscle pain
•          Joint pain
•          Nausea
•          Swollen lymph nodes
•          Allergic reactions

Side effects are more common after the second dose than the first dose.

        If a person experiences side effects after vaccination, they can take steps to care for themselves. Cool compresses and exercising the arm may ease pain and swelling while staying cool and drinking fluids can help with a fever.

In rare cases, people can experience a severe allergic reaction up to 60 minutes after receiving the vaccine. Signs and symptoms include:

•          Breathing difficulties
•          Dizziness
•          Rapid heartbeat
•          Rash all over the body
•         Swelling of the face and throat
•         Weakness

Other rare side effects following vaccination can include myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle) and pericarditis (inflammation of the tissue surrounding the heart). These side effects are more likely following the second dose of the vaccine. If a person experiences any of the above symptoms call a local emergency department immediately.