Messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines are some of the first COVID-19 vaccines authorized for use in the United States. mRNA vaccines are a new type of vaccine to protect against infectious diseases. To trigger an immune response, many vaccines put a weakened or inactivated germ into our bodies. Not mRNA vaccines. Instead, they teach our cells how to make a protein—or even just a piece of a protein—that triggers an immune response inside our bodies. That immune response, which produces antibodies, is what protects us from getting infected if the real virus enters our bodies.COVID-19 mRNA vaccines give instructions for our cells to make a harmless piece of what is called the “spike protein.” The spike protein is found on the surface of the virus that causes COVID-19.
Facts about COVID-19 mRNA Vaccines
- mRNA vaccines cannot give someone COVID-19.
- mRNA never enters the nucleus of the cell and they can not affect or interact with our DNA.
- the cell gets rid of the mRNA soon after it is finished using the instructions.
- The benefit of mRNA vaccines, like all vaccines, is those vaccinated gain protection without ever having to risk the serious consequences of getting sick with COVID-19.
- mRNA vaccines have been held to the same rigorous safety and effectiveness standards external icon as all other types of vaccines in the United States.
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