With the current vaccine development for the COVID-19 pandemic, most people have been left with many unanswered questions. Vaccines help the body prevent infections by preparing it on how to fight the pathogens, bacteria, and viruses that may attack it. The messenger RNA uses information in the genes to make a protein which is destroyed immediately after the process. These processes may seem complicated, but it’s not, especially if you understand the mRNA vaccine history. This article will outline the frequently asked questions about mRNA vaccines.
What are mRNA vaccines, and how do they work?
The mRNA vaccines, like other vaccines, do not enter the nucleus of the cells. And hence do not alter the DNA at all. This vaccine works by introducing an mRNA protein that will correspond to the viral protein. This piece often corresponds to the outer membrane of the virus intended to help the body fight. It’s vital to note that the virus does not infect people who get the mRNA vaccine, and the virus won’t affect them if exposed. With the introduction of the mRNA protein in the body, the cell can produce antibodies to help fight the viral protein.
The antibodies produced help to protect the body by recognizing the bacteria, pathogens, and viruses attaching themselves and marking them for destruction. These antibodies remain on the body even after destroying the pathogen and the virus so that in case your body gets attacked again, your cells can remember and will be able to respond effectively. After receiving the mRNA vaccine and you get exposed to the virus, the antibodies will immediately attach themselves to it and mark it for destruction. This is what happened with the production of the COVID-19 vaccine, and that is how the vaccine works.
How are Covid-19 mRNA vaccines produced?
Scientists have been developing and studying mRNA vaccines for flu, rabies, zika, and other infections. This promoted the development of mRNA technology which has been essential in developing the COVID-19 vaccine. The researchers successfully adapted the technology to fit the covid virus.
Can mRNA vaccine Iinfect me with Covid-19?
Most people are afraid the mRNA vaccine will infect them with COVID-19. It’s good to worry, but mRNA does not work that way. The mRNA helps protect you from contracting the virus. The mRNA vaccine is not exposed to the virus and so does not contain the virus. However, you might experience low-grade fever and body aches after receiving the mRNA dose. This indicates that the vaccine is effective and your body is launching a protective immune response.
What next after mRNA for COVID-19?
The mRNA has helped to open doors for scientists to explore other diseases. Using mRNA technology, they can insert any code for a particular protein to stimulate your immune system to produce antibodies against it. Some mRNA vaccines are already under the human trial phase.
Conclusion
The vaccines produced for mRNA are safe and work differently from most immunizations we are used to. The technology is projected to advance and yield more vaccines for infectious diseases such as HIV, malaria, and others.