A closer look at the Moderna Covid-19 vaccine

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EUREKA, Calif. (KIEM) — A second Covid-19 vaccine has been authorized in the U.S. This one from Moderna. St. Joseph Health Chief Executive Dr. Roberta Luskin-Hawk took part in the advisory panel that recommended the vaccine.

“I think it was very exciting to be a part of what is a historic moment in this pandemic. I was asked to provide some public comment in part because I had the perspective of an infectious disease doctor, but also as someone who is delivering care in a rural environment,” Luskin-Hawk says.

It’s similar to the Pfizer vaccine in that it uses mRNA to teach the body how to create a spike protein. That protein triggers an immune response, which then produces antibodies so your body can fight off the virus in the future. The biggest difference is it does not need to be stored in ultra-low temperature freezers.

“For many rural communities and many clinics that don’t have access to that, Moderna gives them an easier to use option because they don’t need that special freezer,” Luskin-Hawk says.

It’s given in 2 doses to people 18 years old or older a month apart. It is about 94% effective after that second dose. There are some possible side effects like pain or tenderness at the injection site, or other symptoms like a headache, fever, or fatigue.

“With these vaccines we know that your side effects might be a little more noticeable after the second vaccine because really the side effects you feel are your immune system gearing up to fight this virus.”

According to Luskin-Hawk, St. Joseph Health is set to receive 600 doses of the Moderna vaccine in the first shipment. Redwood News reached out to Humboldt County Public Health about the number of doses of the Moderna vaccine the entire county is set to receive. We have yet to hear back.