What are vaccines and how are they made?
The COVID-19 vaccine, and other vaccines, is designed to condition and train your body so that in the event that you contract COVID-19, your immune system will be able to fight the virus better resulting in milder symptoms and a faster recovery. Developing vaccines takes several steps and is always being improved.
Like anything involving science and medicine, the immunization development process starts with research. In this case, research involves learning about specific pathogens, their structures, and how they affect the body. Once scientists have developed a potential candidate, they test it.
If the vaccine candidate is deemed safe and effective during initial testing it will proceed to clinical trials. If the clinical trials are successful, the vaccine developer submits an application to regulatory agencies, such as the FDA for approval. Once a vaccine is approved, it can be manufactured and distributed to the public. Learn more about how getting vaccinated to protect yourself and your family from the Covid-19 virus here.
How will a COVID-19 vaccine protect me?
When you receive a COVID-19 vaccine, your body produces an immune response to the spike protein found on the surface of the virus. This immune response includes the production of antibodies and the activation of certain immune cells, such as T-cells. Upon exposure to the COVID vaccine, your immunes system will already be primed to recognize and fight off the virus.
No vaccine is 100% effective, but the COVID vaccines available today have shown to be highly effective in preventing severe symptoms, hospitalization, and death from the virus. Getting vaccinated not only protects yourself, but also helps to protect others around you by reducing the spread of the virus. Vaccination is one of the most important tools we have in the fight against COVID-19 and preventing Long COVID, which can extend COVID symtoms weeks and event months.
View the article ‘How does the Covid-10 vaccine protect me?‘ article to learn more about how the Covid-19 vaccine can protect you and call Southwest Care today or schedule your vaccination.
How long does immunity last after getting the Covid-19 virus?
How to protect your children from Covid-19
What should you do if you get a positive test?
If you receive a positive Covid test, the first thing to do is remain calm and take immediate action to prevent the spread of the virus. It is important to also take immediate steps to take care of your health before the symptoms get worse. Use this checklist as a reference to know what to do when and if you test positive for Covid.
Make an appointment at Southwest Care today
Southwest Care has been dedicated to providing affordable, high-quality, and judgement free health care services to patients in Santa Fe and Albuquerque. To make an appointment at any of our three locations call 505-955-9454. We are also happy to answer any questions you may have regarding vaccinations or our other services like primary care, newborn care, women’s health, and behavioral health. We are here to help you feel better and stay healthy. Give us a call or send us message through the patient portal. Check out our telehealth options too.
Southwest Care COVID-19 regulations
- One accompanying adult is permitted for pediatric patients and those requiring physical assistance.
- Drivers, family, and friends should wait in their vehicles unless their presence is necessary and approved.
- Masks are required as we are a healthcare facility. If you don’t have a mask, a surgical mask will be provided to you.
