You Asked, We Answered is a VA blog post series where VHA answers your questions regarding COVID-19. Find answers to previous questions at: https://news.va.gov/?s=answered.
I’ve heard about COVID-19 “variants.” What are they?
Viruses constantly change through a process known as mutation. The coronavirus, which causes COVID-19, is no different. These new and slightly different viruses are known as variants. Some variants may disappear on their own, and yet others may spread and last longer.
Experts are currently tracking and studying these variants to learn how they spread and if they might affect existing methods of protection from COVID-19.
Once I’m fully vaccinated, will I be protected from these variants?
Current studies suggest that the COVID-19 vaccines available in the United States may offer protection against infection from these variants. Experts are still working to determine just what level of protection these vaccines may provide.
The CDC explains that experts are still researching variants and their interaction with antibodies created through vaccination.
Until we know for sure if receiving the COVID-19 vaccine will protect against these variants, you should continue to protect yourself even after you have been fully vaccinated.
Keep it simple: Follow the three Ws
Keep an eye out for more answers to your COVID-19 and vaccine questions and remember to follow good health habits in the meantime. To keep it simple, follow the three W’s: wear your masks, wash your hands and watch your distance from others!
To learn more, you can review CDC information about COVID-19 and vaccination, guidance for fully vaccinated people and a helpful chart for choosing safer activities.
References
For more information on COVID-19 variants, visit the CDC website at: About Variants of the Virus that Causes COVID-19 | CDC.
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How do you access VA medical records showing vaccination, type, and dates received?
How do you access VA records showing you have been vaccinated, dates of doses, and type of vaccine, so you can provide proof of vaccination as part of medical records or for a vaccine passport?
What about the vaccines that are still under test trials, will the federal government be funding these current vaccines for a booster vaccine? Or what are the companies planning if the federal government does not help them after being approved?
Are the vaccines long lasting, or will we need to have follow up shots?