Five Covid Vaccine Myths Debunked

In the last year we’ve seen several Covid-19 vaccines approved for use across the globe. Along with the rollout of these vaccines has come much misinformation and fear. The falsehoods have led to scepticism about the vaccines resulting in many people refusing to take them all together. Here we’ll list 5 common vaccine myths and why they shouldn’t be reasons to stop you getting vaccinated. 

Myth: “The vaccine isn’t safe because it was developed too rapidly.”

The pharmaceutical companies involved invested a lot of time and money into making sure the process wasn’t short changed. Global governing bodies such as the FDA and NHS wouldn’t allow it. Yes the vaccine was developed quickly. However, that was due to global demand and emergency circumstances. No safety protocols were bypassed and the pharmaceutical companies performed large clinical studies. For example, the Pfizer/BioNTecH vaccine was studied in 43,000 people. 

Myth: “Vaccines Cause Infertility or Miscarriage.” 

For those planning a family, infertility/miscarriage can be a terrifying prospect. The misinformation campaign surrounding this myth is strong. The evidence however, is just not there to support the myth. Zero infertility or miscarriage has been linked to a covid vaccine. Additionally there is no other viral infection or similar vaccination using the same mechanisms that has been linked to the same. Even pregnant women who catch covid while pregnant aren’t seen to be at any higher risk for miscarriage. 

Myth: “The vaccine can give you Covid-19.”

This is an easy one to debunk. No, the vaccine doesn’t contain a live virus strain, therefore cannot give you Covid-19. Much like your winter flu vaccine, it cannot give you the virus, it will only give your body the ability to create antibodies that fight the virus if you were to catch it. This Reduces your risk of being critically ill and allowing you to have some peace of mind.

For more information of how Covid-19 vaccines work visit – https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus

Myth: “The vaccine was created to control the populace with a microchip.”

This internet myth came about after public conversations about digital vaccine records and covid passports. There is no microchip in the vaccines nor are the vaccines capable of tracking people and gathering their personal information. It’s great science fiction but it’s nothing more than that. 

Myth: “I already had Covid-19 and recovered, so I don’t need to get the vaccine.” 

It’s a convenient thought but the evidence isn’t there to support it. There isn’t enough information to know how long someone will be safeguarded from catching the virus again. Early research has suggested that this immunity may be short lived, though more research is needed on the subject. The Mayo Clinic suggests waiting 90 days after a positive Covid-19 test before taking the vaccine. In short it’s a “better safe than sorry” approach.  


Reference material for facts and figures, Mayo Clinic article on Covid-19 Vaccine Myths.

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