This vaccine is similar to the Pfizer/BioNTech one that got an EUA last week.
So two vaccines are approved?
Not approved: emergency use authorized.
This is basically atemporary approvalfor use while the pandemic is raging.
The FDA expects both companies to continue doing studies and to apply for full approval when they can.
Also, as I write this, the second EUA hasnt actually been granted.
Are the two vaccines basically the same?
They both contain an mRNA coding for the coronaviruss spike protein.
Both vaccines turned out to be around 95% effective in trials.
What are the differences?
The side effects of both are similar, with those from the Moderna vaccine possibly being stronger.
Temporary swelling of armpit lymph nodes was more common with this vaccine than with the Pfizer one.
Still,side effectsof both are mild to moderate in most people.
Storage is different, too.
The Moderna vaccine can be stored at normal freezer temperatures.
Going forward, its possible that rural and remote areas might be more likely to use the Moderna vaccine.
Can I mix and match?
So your second dose should be the same kind of vaccine that you got for your first dose.
Keep this with you, or take a photo with your phone.
