The COVID-19 virus spreads quickly. It can be deadly. But getting vaccinated helps protect you. Here's what you need to know about the vaccines.
A vaccine works by tricking your immune system into making germ-fighting antibodies. The antibodies help you fight off the real virus if it ever enters your body. COVID-19 vaccines may use a strand of genetic code to trigger your immune response. Or, they may use other harmless parts of the virus to do this.
The vaccine is given with a shot in your upper arm. Depending on which vaccine you get, you may need to come back in a few weeks for a second shot. In the time between these injections, you aren't immune. And after your vaccination, you'll need a few weeks for your immune system to build its defense. So you still need to follow masking, distancing and other guidelines.
The protection you get from a vaccine won't last forever. Over time, it fades. So watch for info about followup doses. Some call these "booster shots." Health officials and your doctor can tell you if one is available and recommended for you.
COVID-19 vaccines are safe. They're tested and monitored to make sure they don't cause problems. They can protect you and those around you. They can help stop the spread. So get a vaccine as soon as you can. For more info, talk to your doctor.