Data collected by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) demonstrate the combined vaccines are thus far over 99% effective.
Beth Mole, Ph.D., wrote a story for Arsatechnoica.com published on April 15.
As the article points out, no vaccine is ever 100%. But thus far, the COVID-19 vaccines are pretty close. The numbers suggest that breakthrough infections are rare. And 99.99% of those vaccinated have not contracted the virus.
More, the agency is tracking breakthrough infections caused by variants. And they may be more resistant to the vaccines.
Thus far, the vaccines appear to be highly effective and working as expected. The CDC’s analysis was provided to ArsTechnica.
Also, the vast majority of vaccinations administered were manufactured by Moderna or Pfizer-BioNTech. Phase III clinical trials showed they are over 90% effective. Only 5% of vaccinated Americans received the one dose vaccine by Johnson & Johnson. Clinical trials concluded it is slightly less effective.
Furthermore, the article points out that other factors may contribute to the low breakthrough numbers. They include the fact people may not have been exposed to the virus since being vaccinated. And some may have had mild symptoms.
It is essential that everyone – including fully vaccinated individuals – continue following key preventative steps.
VACCINES ARE KEY
COVID-19 is a vaccine-preventable disease. More, everyone 16 or older in the United States can now get a free vaccine regardless of their immigration or health insurance status.
Moreover, they are safe and effective. Also, while some “breakthrough cases” do occur, vaccines substantially curb the symptoms.
Additionally, here are our key health messages on vaccines:
Vaccines Protect the Person Receiving it
Vaccines help to protect us from the virus. More, you are considered fully vaccinated two weeks after completing your second dose.
Vaccine Protect Others, too
Vaccines also protect others. More, it is important to remember that some cannot receive it, including children. Also you can be infected with it but show no symptoms, but still can spread it to others.
Please get vaccinated. And encourage others, too.
Previous Infection will not Protect you
If you previously had the virus, you still would need the shot. And here is why.
First, it is unclear how long immunity lasts. We wrote a number of articles documenting reinfection. And that is because there are new strains. More, viruses mutate over time. Thus, the strains currently being spread are different from the strains from last year.
So even if you had the virus, you can potentially get it again.
Second, it protects others. Early evidence shows vaccinated individuals are less likely to spread the virus to others. And remember, not everyone is eligible to receive it.