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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at UIC chapter.

The CDC currently has two vaccines listed on their webpage that have been authorized and recommended: ​​​Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 and Moderna’s COVID-19 vaccine. 

medical worker takes a swab test
Photo by Mufid Majnun from Unsplash

Pfizer-BioNTech 

  • People receiving this vaccine get two shots, 21 days apart, at the same location. 

  • The shot is given in the muscle of the upper arm.

  • Does not contain eggs, preservatives, or latex.

  • Pfizer-BioNTech is recommended for people over the age of 16 years and older. 

  • Most common side effects include chills, tiredness, and headaches. 

Moderna

  • 2 shots are given, one month (28 days) apart.

  • The shots are given in the muscle of the upper arm.

  • Does not contain eggs, preservatives, or latex.

  • Moderna is recommended for people over the age of 18 and older.

  • Common side effects include chills, tiredness, and headaches.

COVID Vaccine
Photo by Daniel Schludi from Unsplash

As a new disease being combated with new vaccines, new information is coming out every day on how vaccines can help put an end to the pandemic. As of right now, the CDC confirms that COVID-19 vaccines are safe, and although there are side-effects, they are normal. 

To find out when you are likely to have access to vaccination, use the New York Times vaccine tool here

Amy Hernandez is a senior at UIC pursuing a degree in English with a concentration in professional writing and a minor in Communication 
UIC Contributor.