Quick Guide to Understanding the Different COVID-19 Vaccines
BrightStar Care
Apr 12, 2021
Florida - Southwest
Email US
Click to Email Us
The past year has been challenging for most people, and particularly those with elderly loved ones. The COVID-19 vaccine, however, has been approved in record time, and is now being rolled out around the country. With so many different COVID-19 vaccine companies sending their products to market, how can you know which one is right for you? Are some more effective than others? Here, we look at the different COVID-19 vaccines, to answer some questions you may be asking.
How do the different COVID-19 vaccines work?
How do COVID-19 vaccines work? As most of us have eagerly followed COVID-19 vaccine progress updates, anxious to know each COVID-19 vaccine update, many people have become confused by the different mechanisms behind the vaccines. All vaccines have the same goal: to help our bodies develop immunity to a particular illness. However, different types of vaccines work in different ways. Right now, there are three main types of COVID-19 vaccines in play in the United States. Some of these are already being distributed throughout the country, and some are still undergoing clinical trials. Lets take a look at how each type of vaccine works.
mRNA vaccines give our cells instructions on how to make a harmless protein found in the virus. They contain material from the virus that allows our cells to make copies of the protein, after which our cells destroy the genetic material from the vaccine. Recognizing that the protein is foreign to us, our bodies build defensive white blood cells that will remember how to fight the virus that causes COVID-19 if they encounter it in our bodies in the future. Some people have concerns about this type of vaccine because theyve not heard much about it and wonder if its safe. In fact, mRNA vaccines have been studied by researchers for decades, and are already in use for some illnesses, including the flu, Zika, and rabies. The thing that makes this type of vaccine appealing is that it can be developed in a laboratory with materials that are readily available, facilitating faster vaccine development than traditional methods.
The second type of vaccine is the protein subunit vaccine. These vaccines contain harmless proteins from the virus that causes COVID-19. As with other types of vaccines, our immune system recognizes the proteins as being out of place in the body and begins to fight them. Any future infections will be recognized and fought by memory cells.
Vector vaccines are the third type of COVID-19 vaccine. These contain a weakened version of a live virus. Its a different, and harmless, virus than the one that causes COVID-19, but it has genetic material from the COVID-19 virus inserted into it. This inserted material is called a viral vector and once its inside our cells, it gives cells instructions to make a protein that's unique to the COVID-19 causing virus, leading to our bodies fighting this foreign protein and, by extension, the virus. Viral vectors have been around since the 1970s. They've been not only used in vaccines, but also studied for gene therapy and molecular biology research and used to treat cancer. Notably, viral vector technology has been used for Ebola outbreaks.
Which vaccines are available?
So, what does all of this mean for the COVID-19 vaccine timeline in the United States? Currently, there are two vaccines that have been authorized for use in preventing the virus. The first is the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine, which requires two shots, 21 days apart. The second is Modernas COVID-19 vaccine, which requires two shots 28 days apart. Both the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine and the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine are mRNA vaccines, and neither contain eggs, preservatives, or latex. These vaccines are both about 95 percent effective in preventing COVID-19.
Before they were approved for distribution, there was rigorous COVID-19 vaccine testing for each of these vaccines. Currently, there are other vaccines in the queue, with large-scale Phase 3 clinical trials underway or in the works for three new vaccines. These pending vaccines are AstraZenecas COVID-19 vaccine, Janssens COVID-19 vaccine, and Novavaxs COVID-19 vaccine. Many other vaccines are in the works, at earlier stages of development.
The distribution of the vaccine varies from state to state, with some states moving more quickly than others. In the entire United States, about 9.9 percent of the population has gotten the first vaccination, with about 3 percent having already gotten the second one. That may not seem like it's moving very quickly, but as of the COVID-19 latest update, about 43 million doses have been administered. When will it be your turn? COVID-19 vaccine status is based on which portion of the population the state decides is most in need of the vaccine. It's estimated, though, that most Americans will receive the vaccine by January 2022.You can follow the progress on the CDCs vaccine tracker.
What to expect when you get the COVID-19 vaccine
When its finally your turn to receive the vaccine, what should you expect? First, be aware that you'll need to get both doses of your vaccine in order to develop immunity to COVID-19. In fact, it will take about two weeks after your second vaccine for your body to build up an immunity. Its very important to follow your local Health Departments advice on practices like wearing a mask and social distancing. As to the vaccine itself, the side effects of COVID-19 vaccines are similar to the side effects of some other vaccines. You might experience pain and swelling at the injection site, and you may have fever, chills, tiredness, and headaches. These side effects should be mild, and typically go away in a day or two.
At BrightStar Care, we know that healthcare can sometimes be confusing, and caring for a family member can be challenging. Because we believe that caring is more than just a job, our nurses, therapists, CNAs, and caregivers offer the most professional compassionate care available, in the comforting, familiar surroundings of home. Further, because we have a Director of Nursing overseeing all care, at every level, whether personal or skilled, our patients and their family members have access to someone with insight regarding COVID-19 vaccination. If you have questions related to the vaccines, or any follow-up questions, feel free to ask and we'll offer expert advice.
Other Articles You May Like
Geriatric Mental Health Counseling: Uplifting Minds with Compassion and Care
Program OverviewBaker Senior Center Naples offers Geriatric Mental Health Counseling to address the emotional and psychological challenges commonly experienced by older adults and their families. The program provides licensed, professional outpatient therapy in a supportive setting, including individual, couples, family, and group sessions tailored specifically for seniors.Who It's ForThis program supports seniors and caregivers dealing with: Anxiety and stress Depression Grief and loss Major life transitions (such as retirement or chronic illness) Cognitive changes Low self-esteem Anger, trauma, or unresolved emotional pain Loneliness and isolation Caregiver burnout What It Offers Outpatient Counseling: Confidential therapy for individuals or families needing support. Licensed Clinicians: Therapists are credentialed professionals with extensive geriatric experience. Holistic Mental Health Support: Services are goal-directed and client-centered, often incorporating creative therapies like music and group discussion. Support for Cognitive Conditions: Programming also benefits those experiencing memory loss, combining emotional guidance with social engagement. This program is vital for older adults who may be underserved by traditional mental health services or hesitant to seek help elsewhere.Funding & AccessibilityBaker Senior Center Naples is committed to removing financial barriers to mental health care. The program is: Partially grant-funded, ensuring low or no-cost therapy for qualifying individuals. Insurance-friendly, with many services covered under Medicare or private plans. Supported by donors and foundations, allowing expansion to meet the increasing mental health needs of older adults in Collier and southern Lee counties. Real-Life ImpactThe center has served dozens of seniors facing grief, depression, and isolation. One participant shared how therapy helped her cope with the loss of her spouse, regain emotional balance, and reconnect with life. These stories demonstrate the programs power to transform sadness into strength and disconnection into resilience.Leadership & Clinical Oversight The program is led by Pamela Osborne, LCSW, Chief Clinical Officer, who brings over three decades of experience in geriatric counseling and mental health services. She ensures clinical quality, therapist credentialing, and integration with the centers other programs, such as case management, caregiver support, and memory care services. Why It MattersChallengeSolutionSeniors facing grief or depressionPrivate, professional therapy sessionsCaregivers experiencing burnoutCouples or family counseling for stress reliefEmotional struggles from chronic illnessSupport groups and resilience coachingIsolation and loss of purposeGroup therapy and community-based activitiesLife transitions and role changesShort-term therapeutic support with clear goalsThis program not only supports emotional healing but also promotes dignity, independence, and improved quality of life. How to Access Services Eligibility: Adults aged 60 and older; family caregivers may also participate. Referrals: Seniors can self-refer or be referred by healthcare providers, family members, or case managers. Scheduling Appointments: Call the center directly to discuss availability, insurance coverage, or financial assistance options. Final ThoughtsGeriatric Mental Health Counseling at Baker Senior Center Naples is more than a clinical serviceit is a compassionate bridge to emotional wellbeing for older adults. Through professional counseling, strong leadership, and inclusive access, the center empowers seniors to overcome emotional hardships, reduce isolation, and build healthier, more connected lives. If you or a loved one are facing emotional challenges, Baker Senior Center Naples is ready to helpconfidentially, compassionately, and professionally.
Local Services By This Author
BrightStar Care of Naples & Ft Myers
Home Health 2545 Northbrooke Plaza Drive, Naples, Florida, 34119BrightStar Care is a leading in-home care agency that has been serving Lee and Collier counties since 2006. With a wealth of experience spanning 18 years, we have become a trusted name in providing compassionate and professional care to individuals within the comfort of their own homes. At BrightStar Care, we offer a wide range of services to meet the diverse needs of our clients, including both Medical and Non-Medical Care. Our non-medical care, also referred to as non-skilled care, includes assistance with IADLs such as transportation, meal preparation, medication reminders light housekeeping, laundry and ADLs such as assistance with personal care needs, transferring, and feeding. Our medical care, also referred to as skilled care, services encompass more complex medical needs with care being provided by an LPN or RN. Some of the Skilled services we offer include case management, medication management, medication administration and teaching, wound care and wound vac, disease education and monitoring, IV treatments and line maintenance, catheter and ostomy care, home safety evaluation and much more. In addition to non-skilled and skilled care, BrightStar Care takes pride in offering physical therapy (PT) and occupational therapy (OT) services. Our team of licensed therapists collaborates closely with clients to develop personalized treatment plans, aiding in the restoration of independence, improvement of mobility, and enhancement of overall quality of life. Another aspect that sets BrightStar Care apart is our medical staffing services. We understand the significance of having qualified and reliable healthcare professionals in various settings, such as hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. Through our medical staffing solutions, we provide healthcare organizations with certified nursing assistants, skilled nurses, therapists, and other healthcare professionals on either a temporary or permanent basis. As an organization, we hold the prestigious Joint Commission Accreditation, which represents the gold standard in healthcare. This accreditation validates our commitment to delivering the highest standard of in-home care through quality and safety. Our dedication to providing top-notch care is further exemplified by our rigorous care team member selection and training processes. We carefully choose and train our care team members to ensure they possess the necessary skills, knowledge, and compassion to provide exceptional care to our clients. Furthermore, our thorough screening process, including background checks, drug testing, and reference verifications, instills peace of mind in our clients. Additionally, all our care team members undergo extensive hands-on training with our Director of Nursing, which includes comprehensive skills review, disease-specific training programs, as well as Dementia Live and our own Alzheimer's training called Bright Connections. What truly distinguishes us, however, is our genuine commitment to providing personalized care tailored to the unique needs of our clients. Our Rns create a comprehensive personalized plan of cares for each client. We believe in cultivating meaningful relationships with our clients and their families, creating a warm and supportive environment that promotes overall well-being which is why we created our own program called Purposeful Engagements.In recognition of our efforts to provide peace of mind to clients and their families, BrightStar Care has received numerous awards, including the Home Care Pulse awards for Provider of Choice, Employer of Choice, and Leader in Excellence. When it comes to in-home care, BrightStar Care is the agency of choice for those seeking exceptional care, compassion, and support. Our mission is to enhance the lives of our clients, enabling them to live comfortably and independently in their own homes through delivering a higher standard of in home care and providing peace of mind. Having proudly served Lee and Collier counties for over 18 years, we are excited to continue delivering exceptional in-home care services to our community.
BrightStar Care of Naples & Ft. Myers
Non-Medical 2545 Northbrooke Plaza Drive, Naples, Florida, 34119BrightStar Care is a leading in-home care agency that has been serving Lee and Collier counties since 2006. With a wealth of experience spanning 18 years, we have become a trusted name in providing compassionate and professional care to individuals within the comfort of their own homes. At BrightStar Care, we offer a wide range of services to meet the diverse needs of our clients, including both Medical and Non-Medical Care. Our non-medical care, also referred to as non-skilled care, includes assistance with IADLs such as transportation, meal preparation, medication reminders light housekeeping, laundry and ADLs such as assistance with personal care needs, transferring, and feeding. Our medical care, also referred to as skilled care, services encompass more complex medical needs with care being provided by an LPN or RN. Some of the Skilled services we offer include case management, medication management, medication administration and teaching, wound care and wound vac, disease education and monitoring, IV treatments and line maintenance, catheter and ostomy care, home safety evaluation and much more. In addition to non-skilled and skilled care, BrightStar Care takes pride in offering physical therapy (PT) and occupational therapy (OT) services. Our team of licensed therapists collaborates closely with clients to develop personalized treatment plans, aiding in the restoration of independence, improvement of mobility, and enhancement of overall quality of life. Another aspect that sets BrightStar Care apart is our medical staffing services. We understand the significance of having qualified and reliable healthcare professionals in various settings, such as hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. Through our medical staffing solutions, we provide healthcare organizations with certified nursing assistants, skilled nurses, therapists, and other healthcare professionals on either a temporary or permanent basis. As an organization, we hold the prestigious Joint Commission Accreditation, which represents the gold standard in healthcare. This accreditation validates our commitment to delivering the highest standard of in-home care through quality and safety. Our dedication to providing top-notch care is further exemplified by our rigorous care team member selection and training processes. We carefully choose and train our care team members to ensure they possess the necessary skills, knowledge, and compassion to provide exceptional care to our clients. Furthermore, our thorough screening process, including background checks, drug testing, and reference verifications, instills peace of mind in our clients. Additionally, all our care team members undergo extensive hands-on training with our Director of Nursing, which includes comprehensive skills review, disease-specific training programs, as well as Dementia Live and our own Alzheimer's training called Bright Connections. What truly distinguishes us, however, is our genuine commitment to providing personalized care tailored to the unique needs of our clients. Our Rns create a comprehensive personalized plan of cares for each client. We believe in cultivating meaningful relationships with our clients and their families, creating a warm and supportive environment that promotes overall well-being which is why we created our own program called Purposeful Engagements.In recognition of our efforts to provide peace of mind to clients and their families, BrightStar Care has received numerous awards, including the Home Care Pulse awards for Provider of Choice, Employer of Choice, and Leader in Excellence. When it comes to in-home care, BrightStar Care is the agency of choice for those seeking exceptional care, compassion, and support. Our mission is to enhance the lives of our clients, enabling them to live comfortably and independently in their own homes through delivering a higher standard of in home care and providing peace of mind. Having proudly served Lee and Collier counties for over 18 years, we are excited to continue delivering exceptional in-home care services to our community.