When news broke about the initial rounds of COVID-19 vaccines becoming available in mid-December, I felt a wave of relief. My social media feed lit up with images of friends in the medical field receiving their shots, which was truly inspiring. This vaccine represents a glimmer of hope. Sadly, the struggle to adhere to social distancing and stay-at-home measures in America has contributed to ongoing virus transmission, unlike in some other countries. With personal efforts seemingly falling short, I turn to science for protection. I am eager to receive the vaccine not only for my safety but also for the well-being of others. However, it’s crucial for me—and everyone else vaccinated—to continue wearing masks and practicing social distancing.
Understanding the Vaccine
Our immune system is incredibly adept at fighting off infections such as COVID-19, deploying white blood cells to combat invading germs. For those who are not immunocompromised, the body typically manages to fend off the virus, create antibodies, and remember how to respond to future infections. Vaccines enhance this process by familiarizing our white blood cells with harmless parts of the virus, enabling them to recognize and combat the real virus if encountered later. Contrary to some conspiracy theories, the COVID-19 vaccine does not contain tracking devices, nor can it cause COVID-19 itself. The vaccines consist of harmless components that teach our immune system how to identify and fight the actual virus.
The Vaccine is Not a Complete Solution
While I am optimistic about the vaccine, it’s important to note that its effectiveness in halting the spread of COVID-19 still relies on wearing masks and following guidelines from the CDC when in public spaces. The vaccine provides immunity, but it does not guarantee that we cannot contract or transmit the virus to others.
Like other vaccines, the COVID-19 vaccine requires two doses, meaning full immunity could take up to a month to achieve. Individuals can become infected with COVID-19 just before or after receiving their shots, potentially spreading the virus if they are not careful. Research indicates that the nose is the primary entry point for the coronavirus, which contributes to its rapid transmission. When the virus enters the nasal cavity and begins to multiply, the immune system produces antibodies specific to the mucosa—the mucus membranes lining bodily cavities, including the nose and lungs. If someone is exposed to COVID-19 again after recovering from an initial infection, they will have antibodies prepared to combat the virus. However, receiving the vaccine means the immune response begins in the muscles rather than the nasal area.
This has implications for immunity; our bodies must transport antibodies to the nasal mucosa to effectively prevent the virus’s growth and spread, rather than having them readily available. According to Dr. Mia Thompson, an immunologist, “It’s a race: it depends on whether the virus can multiply quicker than our immune defenses can act.” Thus, vaccinated individuals can still harbor a significant viral load in their nasal passages.
While studies indicate that the vaccine is effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalizations, and death, there is still uncertainty about whether vaccinated individuals can spread the virus. Dr. Samuel Reed, a public health expert, points out that “it’s possible for a vaccinated person to be an asymptomatic carrier, potentially transmitting the virus to others through normal activities like talking or sneezing.”
Receiving the vaccine is akin to bolstering defenses in a castle, but we cannot assume the castle is impervious to attack. The vaccine protects our lungs, where severe symptoms manifest, but our nose and throat remain susceptible, posing a risk to those who lack similar defenses. Efforts are underway to develop a nasal spray vaccine that could address the virus directly at its entry point, but until such advancements are realized, vaccinated individuals must remain vigilant in their mask-wearing practices.
We cannot afford to become complacent after vaccination. Even if we avoid severe illness, we may still carry the virus and unintentionally infect others. I encourage everyone eligible to get vaccinated, but please prioritize the health of others by continuing to wear masks.
For evolving information on COVID-19, we advise checking resources from public health departments, the Centers for Disease Control, and the World Health Organization.
This article was originally published on Jan. 8, 2021.