COVID-19 Vaccine Factsheet (Facts versus Myths)
The COVID-19 pandemic has caused severe illnesses among many people in New York City. More than 600,000 have been infected with the virus in NYC and more than 26,000 have died. Some of them are people just like you.
Now that the COVID-19 vaccine is offered FREE to everyone, St. John’s University wants to ensure that you receive the right information so that you make informed decisions about getting the vaccine. Below, are some facts to address the myths about the COVID-19 vaccine.
Myth: There are new COVID-19 variants, so I am not sure I should get the vaccine now.
Fact: Even though there are new COVID-19 variants, it is advised to get the COVID-19 vaccine anyway as it can still protect you from severe illness or death.
Myth: The COVID-19 vaccine will give me a positive COVID-19 test result.
Fact: Once you get the vaccine, you may test positive on some antibody tests which serves as a level of protection in your body against the virus.
Myth: I no longer need to wear a mask or socially distance after getting the COVID-19 vaccine.
Fact: The vaccine prevents you from getting sick or dying from the virus. There may be a chance that you can still infect others who are not vaccinated so it is very important to continue to follow public health guidelines.
Myth: I have a chronic disease (such as diabetes, high blood pressure, asthma, or HIV). The COVID-19 vaccine will negatively affect my immune system.
Fact: People with chronic diseases are at more risk for severe COVID-19 or death and need the vaccine even more than others. The vaccine will help boost your immune system and protect you from getting the disease.
Myth: I had COVID-19 already so I do not need the vaccine.
Fact: Building immunity after infection may not last very long. More studies are needed to better understand natural immunity. That is why it is important to get the vaccine!
Myth: People who get the COVID-19 vaccine usually get side effects.
Fact: Side effects are common among people who are vaccinated as it shows your body immune system is working to fight off infections.
Myth: The COVID-19 vaccine would prevent me from having a baby.
Fact: The COVID-19 vaccines are not likely to pose a risk to becoming pregnant. Scientists are running tests often to ensure that it is safe.
Myth: The COVID-19 vaccine is risky for breast feeding women and infants.
Fact: The COVID-19 vaccine is not considered to be a risk to the breastfeeding infant. In fact, breastmilk is believed to have antibodies, which could be a benefit to the baby. Scientists will continue studying COVID-19 vaccines to ensure its safety.
Myth: The COVID-19 vaccine contains eggs, pork, and beef so I do not think I should get it.
Fact: Eggs, preservatives, pork, and beef are not used to develop or produce any of the vaccines.
Myth: The COVID-19 vaccine is not safe because it was developed too quickly.
Fact: The severity of the public health pandemic required an emergency response, but companies still had to pass strict safety protocols which allowed the vaccines to be approved for public use.
Call to schedule an appointment for vaccination: 1-800-NYC-VAXX