The best way to protect yourself against COVID-19 as your immunity wanes from previous infection and vaccination is to get the new COVID vaccine. There are currently three vaccines available in the United States – the Moderna vaccine, the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine, and the Novavax vaccine. The Novavax vaccine is the newest available and works differently from the mRNA vaccines, containing a specially formulated harmless protein that prompts the body to create antibodies against the coronavirus, along with an adjuvant that bolsters the immune system’s response. The main purpose of the vaccines is not to prevent infection but rather to protect individuals after infection to prevent severe illness, hospitalization, or death.
The Pfizer and Moderna vaccines work by causing the body to create a piece of a protein similar to one found in the coronavirus, triggering an immune response that produces antibodies against COVID-19. The Novavax vaccine, on the other hand, already contains the harmless protein that prompts the body to create antibodies, along with an adjuvant to bolster the immune response. The Pfizer and Moderna vaccines have been updated multiple times to target current circulating variants in the community, with the latest update in 2024 to protect against the omicron variant KP.2. Anyone 6 months and older can receive the Pfizer or Moderna updated vaccines, with specific recommendations for the number of doses needed based on age and prior vaccination status.
Both the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines have been shown to be safe and effective in preventing COVID-19 illness, with efficacy rates of 95% and 94.1% respectively in clinical trials. The mRNA vaccines have undergone intense safety monitoring and are considered safe by the FDA and CDC, with common side effects including injection site pain, fatigue, headache, and muscle or joint pain. Severe allergic reactions and instances of inflammation of the heart, myocarditis or pericarditis, are rare. The Novavax vaccine, while also safe and effective, may cause fewer side effects than the mRNA vaccines based on recent research.
The Novavax vaccine is the only non-mRNA COVID-19 vaccine approved in the U.S. and is authorized for individuals ages 12 and older under emergency use. The original vaccine was 90% effective against developing symptomatic COVID-19 infection and 100% effective against moderate and severe disease. The updated vaccine targets the JN.1 variant and has been shown to provide immunity against multiple variant strains circulating recently. The Novavax vaccine has been authorized for emergency use by the FDA and meets the agency’s standards for safety, effectiveness, and manufacturing quality.
In general, the COVID vaccine that is best for an individual comes down to personal preference and the recommendation of a healthcare provider. The CDC and FDA do not have a preference for one vaccine over the others, as they are all considered safe and effective. Recent research has shown that both mRNA and Novavax vaccines are more than 90% effective against SARS-CoV-2 in individuals over 18 years old. Special populations, such as those who are immunocompromised or pregnant, should consult with their healthcare provider to determine the best vaccine option for them. It is important for older adults, immunocompromised individuals, and pregnant individuals to stay up-to-date with their COVID-19 vaccinations for protection against the virus. Vaccines.gov is a helpful resource to find the nearest pharmacy offering COVID vaccines, or individuals can visit the Pfizer, Moderna, or Novavax websites to locate vaccines near them.
