Answers to some FAQs as we prepare for the COVID-19 vaccine rollout
2020 ended with some good news: Pasadena Public Health contacted my School Nurse group and asked if we would develop a plan to vaccinate our employees. I had a chance this week to speak to the entire Mayfield faculty and staff about these preliminary plans. Also, alongside many other healthcare workers in California, I received my first shot of the vaccine this week.
Vaccinating faculty and staff puts us one step closer to returning to campus. While we don’t know when the vaccines will arrive, we do know we’ll be ready for them. In the meantime, I wanted to share some COVID-19 vaccine FAQs.
WHAT EXACTLY IS AN mRNA VACCINE?
Messenger RNA (mRNA) is not new technology; it’s been studied for decades. mRNA gives our cells the directions to make a piece of the spike protein that is unique to the SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes COVID-19. After the cells have the directions, the mRNA degrades; the mRNA does not enter the nucleus of the cell or affect our DNA/genetic material. Because only part of the viral protein is made, it does not do any harm to the person. The protein causes the immune system to produce antibodies to fight what it thinks is an infection. It’s like the directions on a cake mix box: you buy the cake mix, follow the directions on the box, make the cake and throw away the box.
IS IT SAFE TO GET?
Safety was the number one priority in the development and approval process. Both the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines have been rigorously tested and went through all the same safety procedures and steps as other vaccines. Multiple safety systems will continue to monitor their safety for the foreseeable future. Because the vaccine does not contain the virus, or parts of it, it cannot cause COVID-19. The vaccines do not contain preservatives, eggs, latex (even the stopper) or gelatin.
WHO SHOULD GET IT?
Pfizer is authorized for everyone over 16 years of age, Moderna for everyone over 18. Anyone considered at high risk for severe disease due to age or underlying health conditions are especially encouraged to be vaccinated.
- What if you already had COVID? Because it’s not known how long immunity lasts after the illness, vaccination is recommended, but you may consider postponing for 90 days after your infection. However, a mild case may not have given a person much immunity.
- What if you have allergies? People who have common allergies to foods, pets, venom, environmental allergens, oral medications, latex, eggs, or gelatin can receive the vaccine.
- What about pregnant or breastfeeding women? They may choose to be vaccinated depending on their risk of community transmission risk, but they should talk to their healthcare provider.
WHO SHOULD NOT GET IT?
Anyone who had a severe immediate allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) after their first dose should not receive a second dose, even of another brand. Anyone who has had a severe allergic reaction to any component of the vaccines should not receive the vaccine. Severe allergic reactions are very rare and all occurred within the observation time and were treated successfully.
WHAT ARE THE SIDE EFFECTS?
Local reactions at the injection site: redness, pain, swelling, stiff arm similar to after other vaccines or shots. Fever, chills, fatigue, headache, swollen glands in the shot arm, vomiting, diarrhea, body aches, muscle aches can also occur. These are signs the immune system is responding to the vaccine appropriately. Most side effects resolve within 1-3 days.
Even with vaccines, we will still need to wear masks, wash our hands and social distance until public health says otherwise. But they are a step in the direction of going back to Bellefontaine.
Stay healthy,
Cathy Cota, RN, BSN, PHN
Avoid the 3 Cs: crowds, confined areas, close contact
Remember the 3 Ws: wear a face covering, wash your hands, watch your distance
Practice the 3 Rs: relationships, routines, reassurance
Established in 1931, Mayfield Senior School in Pasadena, CA is a Catholic, independent, college preparatory school for young women grades 9-12. Noted for its rigorous academic program, which includes 28 Advanced Placement and Honors courses, Mayfield’s curriculum is underscored by a philosophy of educating the “whole child,” which also encourages commitment to and excellence in the arts, athletics, community service and spiritual growth. The nurturing environment at Mayfield Senior School allows each student to flourish in an atmosphere of personal attention.
