What does the COVID vaccine do?
The COVID-19 vaccine helps our bodies recognize and protect us from the virus that causes the coronavirus without having to get sick. Since all viruses mutate, updated COVID vaccines help protect us from the variants currently causing the majority of COVID cases.
To trigger an immune response, COVID vaccines like Pfizer and Moderna contain mRNA to tell our cells how to make specific proteins. This response produces antibodies and is what helps prevent us from getting sick from that germ moving forward. Note that while mRNA sounds like DNA, COVID-19 vaccines do not affect or interact with our DNA, which is a common misbelief.
In the United States, the most available COVID vaccines are:
- Moderna
- Pfizer-BioNTech
- Novavax
The Moderna and Pfizer vaccine are vaccines that contain mRNA. The Novavax vaccine is slightly different in that instead of containing mRNA (which helps our cells make specific proteins) it contains proteins of the virus that cause COVID.
Where can I get a COVID vaccine?
As of Summer 2024, there is no updated Moderna vaccine or booster available. When a new formula is available, vybe plans to offer this at select vybe urgent care centers by appointment only and according to any updated CDC guidelines.
Before coming in, please check with your insurance provider to confirm any out-of-pocket costs. Not all health plans cover vaccinations in an urgent care setting.
How much does the COVID-19 vaccine cost without insurance?
As of Summer 2024, there is no updated Moderna vaccine or booster available. For those without insurance or for those with insurance plans that don’t cover the vaccine in an urgent care setting, vybe will determine a self-pay price for the updated Moderna COVID-19 vaccine, when available.
How many COVID vaccines should I have?
If you’re over the age of 12, the CDC recommends you should get one dose of either the updated Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna, or Novavax vaccine, regardless if you’ve received the original vaccine or previous boosters.
If you’ve never been vaccinated and are over the age of 12, the recommendation is the same, the only difference is the CDC recommends two doses of the Novavax vaccine.
People who are immunocompromised may get additional doses of updated COVID-19 vaccines.
Which COVID vaccine is best?
While all vaccines are effective at preventing coronavirus, studies show that the Moderna vaccine is slightly more effective at preventing the COVID-19 virus with symptoms.
How long do COVID vaccine side effects last?
Like any vaccine, it’s normal to experience mild side effects after receiving a COVID-19 vaccine. Most side effects only last a day or two and may include:
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Muscle aches
- Headache
- Pain where you received the shot
What happens if you get COVID vaccine while positive?
If you receive a COVID-19 vaccine while infected with COVID, you risk experiencing slightly more intense side effects.
You should avoid receiving a COVID-19 vaccine if you’re sick with COVID to not only avoid feeling sicker, but also to prevent exposing healthcare workers or others during your vaccination visit.
If you had COVID and recovered, it’s recommended to still receive a vaccine.
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