COVID-19
COMIRNATY Vaccine ®
The European Medicines Agency (EMA) has opened the door to the first vaccine to prevent COVID-19 in the European Union - Comirnaty®, developed by BioNTech and Pfizer Laboratories. Learn more about this vaccine.
Who is it aimed at?
Comirnaty® is a free, strongly recommended messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccine. It is indicated in the prevention of COVID-19 in persons aged 16 years and older.
How effective is it?
The efficacy of this vaccine has been studied in about 44,000 people aged 16 years and over (including people over 75 years of age), and has shown a 95% reduction in the number of people with symptoms of the disease.
How is it administered?
The vaccine is administered in 2 doses, 21 days apart, and is an essential contribution to controlling the pandemic of COVID-19.
Is the vaccine safe?
Yes. A vaccine is only used when it demonstrates quality, efficacy and safety. Although this is the first vaccine approved with this technology, mRNA vaccines have been studied for the past 15 years and are considered safe. The mRNA from the vaccine does not remain in the body - it disappears shortly after administration of the vaccine.
If I get the vaccine can I get COVID-19?
No. This vaccine does not contain the virus itself, so it does not cause COVID-19.
Should I be careful before being vaccinated?
Yes. If you have a fever, cough, breathing difficulties or changes in smell and/or taste you should not be vaccinated. Contact SNS24 (808 24 24 24). If you are in prophylactic isolation you should also not be vaccinated. Also tell healthcare professionals if you have ever had an anaphylactic reaction to other medicines or foods.
SIDE EFFECTS
Adverse reactions to vaccines are usually mild and go away a few days after vaccination. They may include fever, pain or swelling at the injection site, tiredness, headache, muscle and joint pain.
Monitoring adverse reactions is essential - if you suspect any adverse reaction (whether or not described above), report it on the INFARMED ADR Portal - ask your pharmacist for help.
I got the vaccine - now what?
Although it is important, the start of vaccination does not dispense with the preventive measures adopted until now. The duration of immunity is not yet known so it is important to continue to do our part. So, even if you have already been vaccinated, keep:
- Social distancing;
- Wear mask whenever this distance is not possible and in enclosed or badly ventilated spaces;
- Frequent and correct hand washing or disinfection;
- Respiratory label measures.
Sources
iSaúde
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