Comparing Pfizer and Moderna Vaccines

We decided to write a post comparing Pfizer and Moderna vaccines, now that the FDA authorized both for emergency use. Although it’s likely to be a question of “what you see is what you accept”, in early days at least. Both are messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines meaning they embed a piece of the virus protein which empowers the recipient to develop immune antigens, and also eliminate the messenger protein and the mRNA.

Comparing Pfizer and Moderna Vaccines: The User’s Perspective

Both vaccines require two doses; however there are differences when comparing Pfizer and Moderna vaccines. Pfizer, involving two doses 21 days apart is 95% effective among people aged 16 to 89 years. There is some evidence it starts working after the first dose.

Moderna, on the other hand requires two doses separated by 28 days. It is 95.6% effective among people aged 18 to 64. But this may fall to 86.4% among older people. However, this difference may just be a trial anomaly. That’s because there were few people in the older age group included in trials according to Science News.

Some recipients of both vaccines may experience side effects. These are, in very general terms like minor aftershocks of COVID-19 itself. Pfizer warns of a ‘remote chance’ of severe allergic reactions, while Moderna may also cause ‘shadow symptoms’.

Costs and Storage of Pfizer and Moderna Vaccines

Observer suggested $20 per dose for Pfizer in November 2020, compared to the $15 the United States negotiated for Moderna. However, the actual cost per user is twice that, because both vaccines require two shots. But these are not the only costs taxpayers will bear.

Moderna vaccine ships at -20 ºC (-4 ºF) according to the manufacturer and can stay stable in refrigeration units between +2 to +8 ºC (+36 to +46 ºF) for 30 days.

The Pfizer vaccine on the other hand must travel in special containers at around -70 ºC (-94 ºF) within 10 days, according to Health.Com. Thereafter, it will stay stable for up to six months in ‘ultra-low temperature freezers’. However, it could also remain usable in hospital-type refrigeration units at +2 to +7 ºC (+36 to +46 ºF) for five days.

We don’t yet know how long either vaccine will remain effective. Because we shall have to wait until time rolls on to that point in time. We should take whatever we are offered to help protect ourselves, our families, and our friends from the disease.