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Types of COVID-19 Vaccines

The FDA has authorized the emergency use of vaccines made by Pfizer, Moderna, and Novavax. Full FDA approval has been granted to Pfizer for ages 12 and up and Moderna for ages 18 and up. Learn about COVID-19 vaccines at Sutter.

Different COVID-19 Vaccines

TopicPfizer*ModernaNOVAVAX
Emergency use in the U.S. Yes, for ages 6 months+ with full FDA approval for ages 12+ Yes, for ages 6 months+ with full FDA approval for ages 18+ Yes, for ages 12+
Primary vaccination series by Age groups

6 months - 4 years: 3 bivalent doses (3-8 weeks between dose 1 and 2, at least 8 weeks between dose 2 and 3)

5 years and older: 1 bivalent dose

6 months - 5 years: 2 bivalent doses 4 - 8 weeks apart

6 years and older: 1 bivalent dose

12+ years: 2 shots given 3-8 weeks apart

Optional additional dose 2 months after last bivalent vaccine for immunocompromised; 4 months after last bivalent vaccine for persons 65+ 2 months after last bivalent vaccine for immunocompromised; 4 months after last bivalent vaccine for persons 65+ 6 months after second shot for anyone over age 18**
Vaccine type mRNA mRNA Adjuvanted
How it works This mRNA vaccine helps teach our immune system to recognize COVID-19 This mRNA vaccine helps teach our immune system to recognize COVID-19 The vaccine contains an inactive viral protein with an added ingredient to help boost the immune system response to provide protection
Common side effects Injection site pain, fatigue, headache, muscle pain, joint pain and fever Injection site pain, fatigue, headache, muscle pain, joint pain and fever Injection site pain, fatigue, headache, muscle pain, joint pain, nausea and fever
Potential allergens Doesn't contain eggs, preservatives or latex Doesn't contain eggs, preservatives or latex Doesn’t contain eggs, preservatives or latex
Time to maximum protection from primary series Two weeks after 2nd dose Two weeks after 2nd dose 2 weeks after receipt of 2nd dose

If viewing this chart on your phone, scroll to the left to see all vaccines.

*See schedule for COVID-19 vaccination for people who are moderately or severely immunocompromised.

**A monovalent Novavax booster dose (instead of a bivalent mRNA vaccine) may be used in limited situations in people ages 18 years and older who completed a primary series using any COVID-19 vaccine, have not received any previous booster dose(s), and are unable (i.e., contraindicated or not available) or unwilling to receive an mRNA vaccine and would otherwise not receive a booster dose.

Sources: Pfizer, Moderna, FDA and CDC

mRNA Vaccine FAQs

How mRNA Vaccines Work

Dr. Walker Explains

Who Should Get Vaccinated

Dr. Brown Explains

Development and Side Effects

Dr. Krishna Explains

More COVID-19 Resources

COVID-19 Resources

COVID-19 Vaccine Resources

What to Expect After Your Vaccine

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