With the COVID-19 pandemic, we've all been talking a lot about vaccines, haven't we? One of them is the Moderna vaccine. It's a vaccine that reduces the risk of contracting COVID-19, the disease caused by the virus `(SARS-CoV-2)`. So, today we'll talk about what this Moderna vaccine is, how it works in our bodies, and what you need to know about it.
What actually happens with this vaccine?
Simply put, this is not a medicine to be given after you have COVID-19. This is something that prepares our bodies for it before you get the disease. That means, even if you get this vaccine, there is a chance that you will get COVID-19, but if you do, the symptoms will be less severe and you will recover more quickly.
Imagine, this is like training our body's defense forces, the immune system, to recognize the coronavirus. This is an `mRNA` vaccine. That is, this vaccine only gives our body the "instructions" needed to make the spike protein on the surface of the coronavirus. When our body cells see this instruction, they make that protein. Then our defense cells learn to fight against that protein. So, if the real coronavirus enters the body later, our immune system will recognize it as soon as it sees it and is ready to fight it.
The most important thing is that this vaccine does not harm your DNA. This `mRNA` instruction is eliminated from the body after a while.
This vaccine is known by the brand names `Moderna COVID-19` or `Spikevax COVID-19 mRNA`.
Things to tell your doctor before getting vaccinated
Before you go to get vaccinated, it's very important to inform your doctor about your health condition. Be sure to tell them about these things in particular.
- Allergies of any kind: Tell us if you have ever had an allergy to any vaccine, medicine, food, or dye.
- Bleeding disorders: Do you have a bleeding disorder?
- Fever or Infection: Do you have a fever or other infection on the day of the vaccination?
- Immune system problems: Do you have a medical condition that weakens your immune system? Or are you taking medications that do?
- Other vaccines: Have you recently received another vaccine? Or are you planning to receive one soon? Have you had an unusual reaction to a previous COVID vaccine?
- Pregnancy: Are you pregnant? Or are you trying to get pregnant?
- Being a breastfeeding mother: Are you a breastfeeding mother?
When you are clear about these things, it will be easier for the doctor to decide whether it is appropriate to vaccinate you.
How the vaccine is given and the dosage schedule
This vaccine is given by injection into a muscle in your shoulder. This is usually done by a doctor or a trained nurse.
- Basic doses: To be fully protected, you need to get two doses, about a month apart . Set a reminder to remember when your next dose is due. It's important to get the same type or brand of vaccine for both doses .
- Vaccination card: You will receive a vaccination card after your first dose. Be sure to take this card with you when you go to get your second dose.
- Third dose and booster doses: If you are immunocompromised, your doctor may recommend a third dose one month after the second dose. You may also need to get booster doses over time to boost your immunity. Talk to your doctor about this.
- Giving it to children: In special cases, this vaccine can be given to children as young as 6 months. However, there are special precautions, so talk to your pediatrician about it.
What are the side effects of the vaccine?
As with any vaccine, some side effects may occur after receiving the Moderna vaccine. Most of these are common conditions that go away in a few days. But there are some things we should be aware of.
| Type of side effect | Symptoms |
|---|---|
| Side effects that require immediate medical attention | |
| Allergic Reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat, difficulty breathing. |
| Heart Muscle Inflammation | Unusual tiredness, shortness of breath, chest pain, fast or irregular heartbeat, dizziness, swelling of the ankles, feet, or hands. |
| Side effects that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Common side effects | Chills , fatigue, fever, headache, joint pain, muscle pain, nausea, vomiting, pain, redness or swelling at the injection site, and swollen lymph nodes. |
A special note about inflammation of the heart muscle
There have been very rare reports of an inflammation of the heart muscle (myocarditis) after receiving this vaccine, especially in young boys and young men. It is still being investigated whether this is caused by the vaccine. Therefore, if you or your child experience chest pain, difficulty breathing, or changes in heart rate after receiving the vaccine, do not ignore it. See a doctor immediately.
Can there be problems with other medications?
Yes, some medications can interact with this vaccine, so it is important to tell your doctor about all medications you are taking.
- Some blood-thinning medications
- Chemotherapy or radiation therapy for cancer
- Immune-suppressing drugs
- Steroid-type medications (e.g. prednisone or cortisone)
This list is not exhaustive. Inform your doctor about any Ayurvedic or other traditional medicines, or even vitamins you are taking.
What if I accidentally miss a dose or take too much?
If you miss your second dose or booster dose, don't panic. Call your doctor or vaccination center immediately for advice.
Since this vaccine is administered by medical professionals, there is little chance of overdose. However, if this happens in any way or if you suspect it, go to a hospital Emergency Unit (ETU) immediately. You can also call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for further advice if necessary.
Take-Home Message
- The Moderna vaccine is not a treatment for COVID-19. It is a preventive vaccine that is given to reduce the risk of contracting the disease and the severity of the disease.
- For complete protection, it is important to receive both doses, usually one month apart.
- Tell your doctor clearly about any other illnesses you have, allergies, and all medications you are taking before getting the vaccine.
- If you experience any unusual symptoms such as chest pain, difficulty breathing, or extreme fatigue after receiving the vaccine, do not ignore it and seek medical advice immediately.
- Even after getting vaccinated, it is very important to continue following health advice such as wearing a face mask and washing your hands.
💬 අදහස් (0)
තවමත් කිසිදු අදහසක් පළ කර නොමැත. ඔබේ අදහස පළමු වරට මෙහි එක් කරන්න.
ඔබේ අදහස එක් කරන්න