The Three COVID-19 Vaccines
Now that the FDA has given emergency authorization for the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine, the U.S. has three vaccines available to help combat COVID-19. This chart, compiled from CDC and vaccine manufacturer data, helps explain the differences among the vaccines. Right now, we don’t have the luxury of choosing which vaccine we get since the federal government handles distribution. Because of that, it’s important to be vaccinated as soon as you’re eligible, no matter which vaccine is offered.
Additional vaccination information: None of the three vaccine options will infect you with COVID-19. Some of the vaccines may require a short 15- to 30-minute wait after you’ve received your shot before you go home. As with the flu shot, there is a likely chance you’ll need to get a yearly vaccination. Ongoing research is being conducted to determine the effects these vaccines have on the new COVID-19 strains. We will update as we know more.
- 2 shots
- 94.1% effective against positive COVID-19 test results or symptomatic infection
- For ages 18+
- Doses are 28 days apart
- Side effects may include fatigue, muscle pain, sore arm and rarely severe allergic reaction
- Must wait 15–30 minutes after shot before going home
- Won’t give you COVID-19 infection
- Likely requires annual vaccine
- Still learning effects on new COVID-19 strains
- 2 shots
- 95% effective against positive COVID-19 test results or symptomatic infection
- For ages 16+
- Doses are 21 days apart
- Side effects may include fatigue, muscle pain, sore arm and rarely severe allergic reaction
- Must wait 15–30 minutes after shot before going home
- Won’t give you COVID-19 infection
- Likely requires annual vaccine
- Still learning effects on new COVID-19 strains
- 1 shot
- 72% effective against COVID-19-related moderate to severe illness and 85% against severe cases
- For ages 18+
- Only 1 dose
- Side effects may include fatigue, muscle pain and a sore arm
- No known wait time yet
- Won’t give you COVID-19 infection
- Likely requires annual vaccine
- Still learning effects on new COVID-19 strains