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Types of COVID-19 Vaccines

The FDA has authorized the emergency use of vaccines made by Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna and Janssen/Johnson & Johnson. Full FDA approval has been granted to Pfizer for ages 16 and up and Moderna for ages 18 and up. Learn about COVID-19 vaccines at Sutter.

Different COVID-19 Vaccines

TopicPfizer*ModernaJanssen/J&J
Emergency use in the U.S. Yes, with full FDA approval for ages 16+ Yes with full FDA approval for ages 18+ Yes
Age groups 6 months+ 6 months to 5 years, 18+ 18+
Primary vaccination series 3 doses, ages 6 months to 4 years 2 doses, 4-8 weeks apart** 1 dose
Booster doses 5 months after second shot for anyone over age 5 5 months after second shot for anyone over age 12 2 months after initial dose; second mRNA booster for ages 50 and up at least 4 months after the first booster.
Vaccine type mRNA mRNA Viral vector
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. This viral vector vaccine is made of an inactivated, harmless virus that helps instruct our immune system to recognize COVID-19.
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 (see ingredient list) Doesn't contain eggs, preservatives or latex (see ingredient list) Doesn't contain eggs, preservatives or latex (see ingredient list)
Time to maximum protection from primary series Two weeks after 2nd dose Two weeks after 2nd dose Two weeks

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.

**According to the CDC, an 8-week interval may be optimal for some people ages 12 years and older, especially for those ages 12 to 39 years. A shorter interval (3 weeks for Pfizer-BioNTech; 4 weeks for Moderna) between the first and second doses remains the recommended interval for: people who are moderately or severely immunocompromised; adults ages 65 years and older.

Sources: Pfizer, Moderna, Janssen/J&J, 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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