Are Vaccines Effective in Protecting People From the Omicron Variant?

With all the information about vaccines around the internet, it can seem overwhelming. Knowing valid sources and comparing data is an exhausting process. With recent reports, we can break down the effectiveness of the vaccinations against the current Omicron variant. With new variants gaining traction in our communities, knowing how to stay healthy and protect yourself is a valuable tool.

The Types of Vaccinations Available

Four primary vaccinations have been made widely available for COVID-19. While each serves to boost the immune system against the virus, they have different properties and slight adjustments in things like their age recommendations and booster doses. Pfizer, Moderna, and Johnson & Johnson are approved for use in the United States.

• Pfizer

Pfizer-BioNTech vaccination is recommended for ages five years or older. The primary dose is given in two doses, approximately three weeks apart. Those over 18 years old should get a booster five months after their primary series vaccination. You are considered fully vaccinated two weeks after the second dose.

• Moderna

Moderna vaccinations are advised to be taken for those 18 years of age and older. There are two doses, given four weeks apart. Individuals can get either Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna five months after their last dose for the booster.

• Johnson & Johnson

The Johnson and Johnson vaccination is recommended for those 18 years or older. It is a one-dose series with the booster of either Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna two months after the first vaccine.

• AstraZeneca

The AstraZeneca vaccination is given to those 18 years or older and is not recommended for those who have strong allergic reactions. Two doses are given in 8-12 weeks.

How Do Vaccines Work?

Vaccinations protect against diseases and illnesses by creating antibodies in our systems without having to experience severe symptoms. Vaccines limit the number of people infected with the virus and therefore weaken it. It will not make you sick but may cause symptoms like aches or fever. There are a few different types of COVID-19 vaccinations, such as those that focus on mRNA, those that focus on proteins, and vector vaccines. Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna are both mRNA vaccines, which provide the blueprint for our body to fight off COVID-19. Johnson & Johnson is a vector vaccine that helps the body make proteins that can recognize and attack intruders on the body.

Are Vaccines Effective?

Vaccines have been proven to reduce the likelihood of someone contracting COVID-19 significantly. Those who contract it have greatly reduced symptoms and are less likely to be hospitalized. The Washington State Department of Health states that the Johnson and Johnson vaccination prevented 74% of people from getting symptoms. In comparison, Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna prevented 94% of people from getting COVID-19 symptoms.

COVID-19 Variants

While vaccination certainly offers protection against COVID-19, it is still possible to become infected after being vaccinated. This is like the flu, where vaccinations are available, but some still become ill. This is because the virus will mutate and change to survive. Our current vaccinations have been effective in reducing extreme symptoms and hospitalizations. Those who are vaccinated and get COVID-19 typically have mild symptoms.

Getting Tested

Regardless of vaccination, getting tested is critical to keeping our communities safe. If you experience symptoms of COVID-19, it’s important to get tested as soon as possible. The most experienced symptoms are fever, cough, congestion, and loss of taste or smell. There are several different types of tests that are available. However, the PCR tests are the most accurate. You can get tested at most urgent care centers, pharmacies, medical facilities and obtain over-the-counter test kits at some retailers.

Drip Hydration offers at-home testing that is convenient and easy for you and your family. There are many available tests, such as the rapid antigen, PCR, rapid, and antibody tests. A medical professional will come out to the home and test you, with results as quick as fifteen minutes. To book your professional COVID-19 test, contact us today.

• What We Know About The New Covid Omicron Variant And How To Protect Yourself
• What are Known Symptoms of the Covid Omicron Variant?
• Is the Omicron Variant Targeting Younger Populations?
• Which COVID Tests Can Detect The COVID Omicron Variant
• What Do The Experts Say About Covid Ending?
• Covid-19 Timeline: How Long It Lasts & What Symptoms To Expect