People age 18 years and older who received Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna COVID-19 vaccines may now get a booster.
Get the facts.
Myth:
"The vaccine was developed too quickly and can't be safe."
Fact:
The vaccines were developed, tested, and authorized using the same rigorous process used for other successful vaccines, and the Pfizer vaccine received FDA approval 8/23/21.
Myth:
"The side effects of the vaccine are severe and risky."
Fact:
The vaccine may cause a short-term reaction as your immune system kicks into action, but some people have no side effects at all.
Myth:
"The vaccine will give me COVID-19."
Fact:
None of the vaccines contain the live virus that causes COVID-19, so a COVID-19 vaccine cannot make you sick with COVID-19.
Myth:
"The vaccine causes fertility issues."
Fact:
There is no evidence that vaccination causes problems with pregnancy, development of the placenta, or sperm counts.
Myth:
"I already had COVID–I don't need a vaccine."
Fact:
Scientists cannot yet tell how long natural immunity lasts, so a COVID vaccine is recommended for anyone who has had COVID-19 more than 30 days ago.
Myth:
"An mRNA vaccine alters my DNA."
Fact:
Messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines teach the body how to protect against infectious disease and do not interact with your DNA or genetic material in any way.
Myth:
"The vaccine includes a microchip and will make my arm magnetic."
Fact:
Rumors and Internet memes saying the vaccine can track you, gather information, or magnetize you are false.
Myth:
"There's no way to tell what's true about the vaccine."
Fact:
Good information is out there. Talk to trusted sources like your physician and look for information from official public health and safety authorities.
