What is Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine?
The Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine, known as BNT162b2, is a mRNA vaccine developed to prevent COVID-19. The vaccine was developed by Pfizer and BioNTech together, with the goal of creating an effective and safe vaccine against the novel coronavirus.
The vaccine is administered in two doses, given three weeks apart. The vaccine contains a small piece of the genetic material, mRNA, that the virus uses to make a protein. After the mRNA is injected into the body, cells create the viral protein, which then triggers an immune response. The immune system then creates antibodies to recognize and fight the virus if a person is later exposed to the virus.
How Effective is the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine?
The Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine has been reported to be 95% effective for preventing COVID-19 in clinical trials. Clinical trials included approximately 44,000 participants, with half receiving the vaccine and half receiving a placebo.
Of the participants who were given the vaccine, only nine individuals developed COVID-19. In contrast, there were 169 cases of COVID-19 among participants who received the placebo. The vaccine was also shown to be effective in preventing severe cases of COVID-19, with no severe cases reported in those who received the vaccine.
What are the Side Effects of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine?
The most common side effects reported after receiving the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine include pain and swelling at the injection site, fatigue, headache, muscle pain, chills, fever, and nausea. These side effects usually resolve within a few days and are considered normal signs that the body is building immunity.
In rare cases, severe allergic reactions can occur after receiving the vaccine. This is why individuals who have a history of severe allergic reactions to vaccines or other medications should speak with their doctor before receiving the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine.
Conclusion
The Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine has shown great promise in preventing COVID-19, with a reported effectiveness of 95% in clinical trials. While side effects are possible, they are usually mild and go away on their own.
If you are interested in receiving the vaccine, speak with your healthcare provider to determine if it is right for you. The vaccine is currently being distributed to those who are most at risk, including healthcare workers and individuals over 65 years old.