Inject yourself with the latest on the COVID-19 vaccine
Malia Kabwe, Staff Writer
Once the COVID-19 virus enters the body it begins to multiply. The body’s white blood cells then attack the infection. After overcoming the virus, the body’s immune system stores information about the initial reaction in order to protect against another infection. T-lymphocytes or “memory cells” are stored to fight off the virus if the body is infected a second time. It is currently unknown how long memory cells protect against COVID-19.
Since vaccines take a while to produce memory cells it is possible to contract the virus and experience harsher symptoms after recent vaccination. However, after roughly two weeks have passed, an adequate immunity should have been built. Though no vaccine is 100% effective, it is less likely for vaccinated people to contract the virus with serious symptoms.
Experiencing side effects after a vaccine is completely normal. The COVID-19 vaccine normally builds immunity after two weeks from the first dosage. Being fully vaccinated does not mean that masks are irrelevant. Masks should still be worn indoors and in large crowds to further minimize the possibility of exposure. The COVID-19 vaccine does not make people completely immune. Instead, the vaccine reduces the likelihood of infection and the severity of symptoms.
From June to Sept. 2021, 85 percent of people hospitalized from COVID-19 were not fully vaccinated.
Between Jan. 3 and Jan. 9, unvaccinated people were 4.1 times more likely to contract COVID-19 compared to fully vaccinated people.
