What is a viral vector vaccine?

This type of vaccine uses a weakened version of a different virus (the “vector”) that gives your cells instructions. The vector enters a cell and uses the cell’s machinery to create a harmless piece of the COVID-19 spike protein. The cell displays the spike protein on its surface, and your immune system sees that it doesn’t belong there. Your immune system will start to make antibodies and activate other immune cells to fight off what it thinks is an infection. Your body learns how to protect you against future infection with COVID-19, without you having to get sick.

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1. How are COVID-19 vaccines made?
2. How will a COVID-19 vaccine work in my body?
3. What are the ingredients in COVID-19 vaccines?
4. What is an mRNA vaccine?
5. What is a viral vector vaccine?
6. What types of symptoms are normal after receiving the vaccine?
7. Can I get the COVID-19 vaccine if I've had an allergic reaction to a vaccine in the past?
8. Can I get the COVID-19 vaccine if I'm pregnant, lactating or planning to become pregnant?