Answering Key Questions About COVID-19 Vaccines

Abstract

The US government is investing in rapid development of vaccinesagainstcoronavirusdisease2019(COVID-19),several relying on new technologies. 1 In the US, 4 vaccine candidates are in phase 3 studies with initial results expected soon. If studies succeed, 1 or more vaccines may become available within a few months. Clinicians are likely among the first to be offered COVID-19 vaccines and have a key role in helping patients make decisions about vaccination. 2 Providing evidence-based information will be particularly important in an environment of polarization and mistrust. This Viewpoint focuses on common questions patients are likely to ask about COVID-19 vaccines.

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“…Among the 30% of HCWs who were hesitant to receive a COVID-19 vaccine, the top reasons for refusal included the novelty and rapid development of the vaccines and fear of adverse effects, all of which are key questions to be addressed. [42].…”

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“…Families who display vaccine hesitancy for existing immunizations will benefit from pediatricians who strengthen families’ health literacy and who utilize proven methods to ensure understanding of information including information technology. 30 , 31 , 32 …”

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“…With the upcoming availability of COVID-19 vaccines, urgent understanding is needed whether to adjust immunomodulation therapy post-immunization [61]. There are six major types of COVID-19 vaccines currently under development worldwide.…”

“…There are six major types of COVID-19 vaccines currently under development worldwide. These vaccines are developed from different viral components including protein subunit, recombinant, live attenuated, inactivated, nucleic acid-based and virus-like particles, and hence all acting differently [61]. On the horizon and expected to be available by the publication of this article, the two promising vaccines developed by US Moderna and BioNTech-Pfizer claim more than 94% efficacy and were developed by a unique novel technology [62].…”