Intro
Currently in the US, there are three popular vaccines- the Moderna version, the Johnson and Johnson version and also the Pfizer version. One of the main differences between them is the number of shots needed. Both the Moderna and Pfizer vaccine require two shots while the Johnson and Johnson vaccine requires one shot. But what’s the difference or the advantages of them?
One Shot
Vaccines like the Johnson and Johnson one only requires only one shot. While this is more convenient, some people are concerned that it is not as effective. For instance, the Mayor of Detroit announced that he had turned down a shipment of Johnson and Johnson vaccines. Many people cite the 66% effective rate which is lower than the mid 90 effectiveness of Moderna or Pfizer vaccines. However, these rates cannot easily be compared as the Johnson and Johnson trial was larger and on a more global scale. Furthermore, it was tested in areas where more dangerous variants were present so that could have also skewed the data.
Two Shots
Although the Moderna and Pfizer shots require two shots, studies have shown that they are effective. The effects of taking only one shot is not really well known as most people take both. However, it has been shown that taking only one shot of the Pfizer vaccine will only be 52% effective compared to 94% effectiveness with two shots.
Conclusion
Overall, it doesn’t really matter which shot you get as they are both proven to work. You should plan to get your shot at the center nearest to you as soon as possible. In order for the US to gain herd-immunity, around 70% of the population needs to be vaccinated. Once that happens, we can expect a situation that is closer to normal.
