[ad_1]
The Italian pharmaceutical agency has published on its website the “instructions for use” of the vaccine against Covid-19 prepared by Pfizer and BioNTech, the Corminaty. The Aifa website contains answers to the most common questions about this preparation, based on RNA (mRNA) messaging technology. The vaccine, he says, is intended for “subjects 16 years of age or older”, “does not contain the virus” and “cannot cause disease.”
How is the vaccine administered?
The vaccine is administered – already administered, among other countries, in the United States and Great Britain, and whose administration will begin tomorrow, Sunday, December 27, in the European Union, including Italy. in two injections, usually into the muscle of the upper arm, at least 21 days apart.
Does the mRNA from the vaccine stay in the body?
No. The answer is explained by AIFA with a few lines that summarize the mechanism of operation of the vaccine, starting from the methods that the virus uses to attack humans: “Sars-CoV-2 viruses infect people through a protein called Spike, which acts as a key that allows virus access to cells, where they can then reproduce, “explains Aifa. Covid vaccines are used to block this protein. The Pfizer and BioNTech vaccine is made with acid molecules Messenger ribonucleic cells that contain instructions for the vaccinated person’s cells to synthesize Spike proteins. Once injected, the mRNA is taken up by the cells and begins the “manufacture” of those proteins, which in turn stimulate the immune system to produce antibodies If the vaccinated person comes into contact with the virus, the body will already have antibodies to block it. The mRNA of the vaccine, shortly after vaccination, breaks down and disappears.
What does the vaccine contain?
Aifa explains that messenger RNA is enclosed “in liposomes formed by ALC-0315 ((4-hydroxybutyl) azanediyl) bis (hexane-6,1-diyl) bis (2-hexyldecanoate) and ALC-0159 (2-](polyethylene glycol ) -2000]-N, N-ditetradecylacetamide) to facilitate entry into cells “, in addition to other excipients:” 1,2-Distearoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine cholesterol potassium chloride potassium dihydrogen phosphate Sodium chloride Phosphate disodium dihydrate sucrose water for injections’.
Is protection effective immediately after injection?
No, explains Aifa: “the effectiveness was demonstrated after a week from the second dose”.
How long does the protection last?
It is not known, explains Aifa: the observation period – given the speed with which the vaccine was developed, against a virus known for less than a year – was limited, but “knowledge about other types of coronavirus indicates that the protection must be at least 9-12 months. “
Can those who are vaccinated, if infected, transmit the virus?
It’s plausible, writes Aifa, explaining how it takes more time to get meaningful data. The recommendation is that those in contact with a person who has been vaccinated continue to take anti-Covid protection measures anyway.
Have any adverse reactions been observed?
Those most frequently observed were of mild or moderate severity and resolved within a few days of vaccination. What are we talking about? Pain and swelling at the injection site, fatigue, headache, pain in muscles and joints, chills, and fever. In fewer than one in 10 people, the AIFA writes, redness at the injection site and nausea were seen. Injection site itching, pain in the extremities, enlarged lymph nodes, difficulty falling asleep, and nausea were rare, seen in fewer than 1 in 100 people. one side of the face Anyone developing reactions can report it to their doctor, local health authority or on the Aifa website here.
Can anyone with an allergy be vaccinated?
Aifa writes that “people with a history of severe anaphylactic reactions or severe allergy, or who already know that they are allergic to one of the components of the Comirnaty vaccine, should consult with their physician before receiving the vaccine.” Also, people who experience a severe allergic reaction after receiving the first dose of the vaccine should not receive the second. However, the cases of severe allergic reaction that have occurred so far have been very few,
Can pregnant women get vaccinated?
The data at the moment is very little, writes Aifa, but “laboratory studies in animal models have not shown harmful effects in pregnancy.” In summary, the vaccine is not contraindicated and does not exclude pregnant women from vaccination. There are no risks even for women who are breastfeeding: but “the use of the vaccine during pregnancy and lactation should be decided in close consultation with a healthcare professional after considering the benefits and risks.”
Can people with immunodeficiency or autoimmune diseases get vaccinated?
At the moment, there is not enough data to provide a decisive answer, but “people with autoimmune diseases who do not have contraindications can be vaccinated,” and there are no safety concerns for people with weakened immune systems.
Who do I contact to get the vaccine?
Vaccination will be done through the National Health System: it is not possible to vaccinate privately for a fee. In the initial phase, vaccination will be reserved for health personnel and for staff and guests of nursing homes; Vaccinations will be carried out in the 286 hospitals defined by the National Vaccination Plan. The vaccination will be free for everyone.
Do you need special documents to get vaccinated?
No: a valid identity document and a health card are enough. “It may be useful,” Aifa writes, “to have any health documentation with you that can help the vaccinator assess physical condition.”
December 26, 2020 (change December 26, 2020 | 18:29)
© REPRODUCTION RESERVED
[ad_2]
