In emergencies, the experts at the FDA can decide that the benefits of a drug justify a shorter process. If so, the FDA can issue an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA). Under an EUA, the FDA maintains its strict standards but makes decisions more quickly than usual.
Efficacy is the degree to which a vaccine prevents disease, and possibly also transmission, under ideal and controlled circumstances – comparing a vaccinated group with a placebo group. Effectiveness meanwhile refers to how well it performs in the real world.
See full answerCategories of noncitizen, nonimmigrants that meet the criteria for an exception under the proclamation and CDC’s order include: Persons on diplomatic or official foreign government travel Children under 18 years of age Persons with documented medical contraindications to receiving a COVID-19 vaccine Participants in certain COVID-19 vaccine trials Persons issued a humanitarian or emergency exception Persons with valid visas [excluding B-1 (business) or B-2 (tourism) visas] who are citizens of a foreign country with limited COVID-19 vaccine availability. Members of the U.S. Armed Forces or their spouses or children (under 18 years of age). Sea crew members traveling pursuant to a C-1 and D nonimmigrant visa Persons whose entry would be in the national interest, as determined by the Secretary of State, Secretary of Transportation, or Secretary of Homeland Security (or their designees)
Yes. Documentation or other information regarding an individual's vaccination status is confidential medical information under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and some state privacy laws.
Efficacy refers to how well a vaccine performs under ideal conditions as reflected in a careful clinical trial.
COVID-19 vaccines are effective, but studies have shown vaccine protection declines over time especially with the Omicron variant. Learn more about getting a booster shot to enhance or restore protection against COVID-19.
Some people may be at risk for an adverse reaction because of an allergy to one of the vaccine components or a medical condition. This is referred to as a medical exemption. Some people may decline vaccination because of a sincerely held religious belief. This is referred to as a religious exemption.
It's likely related to variations in the immune system and its response, which may be influenced by things like age, genetics or underlying medical conditions.
If you have had an immediate allergic reaction (a reaction that started within 4 hours) to any vaccine other than a COVID-19 vaccine or any injectable therapy, you may still be able to get a COVID-19 vaccine. However, your doctor may refer you to an allergy and immunology specialist for additional care or advice.
Discussions with health department staff are confidential. This means that your personal and medical information will be kept private and only shared with those who may need to know, like your health care provider.
At your first vaccination appointment, you should get a CDC COVID-19 Vaccination Record card that tells you what COVID-19 vaccine you received, the date you received it, and where you received it. Keep your CDC COVID-19 Vaccination Record card for future use.
Yes, individuals who receive a nonreplicating, inactivated or mRNA-based COVID-19 vaccine can donate blood without a waiting period.