Q: Can dog DNA tell age?

Dog DNA tests cannot tell your dog’s chronological age , but some can tell you its biological age — that is, how old your dog seems based on the shortening of its telomeres. My research shows that the NEXTGEN test kit from DNA My Dog offers the best value and results in determining how old your dog is genetically and how much longer he may live.

Q: Which dog DNA test is better: Embark or Wisdom Panel?

Embark is easily the best dog DNA test kit. It offers the most accurate breed identification because it compares over 200,000 biomarkers against its database of more than 350 breeds. It also offers comprehensive health screening of over 200 medical conditions so you can learn about what diseases your pet may develop in the future. Best of all, it does all of this for under $200.

Q: How does DNA affect weight and weight loss?

Some of the factors that affect your weight – including your appetite, fitness levels, and ability to lose weight and keep it off – are genetic. Being aware of these genetic predispositions may help you decide what type of weight management strategy is best suited to your goals. With that said, biology is not destiny, and your genes are only part of the picture. Factors such as your eating habits, level of physical activity, and age also play a huge role in your weight. When you’re looking for an effective weight management strategy, you should take all of these factors into account – and consult with a doctor or nutritionist before embarking on any new diet program.

Q: How accurate are DNA weight loss kits?

A DNA test looks at specific genetic markers in your DNA that have been shown to be associated with various physical and physiological traits. DNA tests are able to interpret these markers pretty accurately and tell you what they mean. While n o DNA test is 100% accurate, the companies listed here use the latest science and accredited labs.

Question 1

How can I find out what breed my dog is?

Accepted Answer

A dog DNA test that includes breed identification is the best way to find out your pet’s biological makeup. Best of all, most tests don’t require a blood sample or vet visit — you just need to swab your dog’s mouth for about 30 seconds.

Of all the DNA tests I’ve researched, Embark is my top recommendation because it offers the most accurate results. It reviews over 200,000 biomarkers to provide the most in-depth information about how your dog came to be.

Question 2

What can dog DNA tests tell you about your dog&rsquo;s health?

Accepted Answer

Dog DNA tests can tell you a lot about your dog’s health, including what conditions it may be predisposed to developing and what foods or environmental factors may be causing it discomfort.

Remember that dog DNA tests are not intended to diagnose a health condition. Just because a test shows that your pet may develop a disease, that doesn’t mean your dog is sick or that it will ever be sick. It’s best to use the information from DNA tests to develop action plans with your veterinarian.

Question 3

Why should you test your dog&rsquo;s DNA?

Accepted Answer

If you’ve ever wondered why your dog has floppy ears or whether its piercing eyes come from wolf or coyote in its ancestry, you can gain insight into your pet’s lineage by using a dog DNA test.

Dog DNA tests can also be used to learn about possible diseases or health conditions that your pup may develop. If your furry friend has been plagued by itching or an upset stomach, you can use the intolerance tests from 5Strands to determine what food or environmental factor might be causing discomfort.

Question 4

Can dog DNA tell age?

Accepted Answer

Dog DNA tests cannot tell your dog’s chronological age, but some can tell you its biological age — that is, how old your dog seems based on the shortening of its telomeres.

My research shows that the NEXTGEN test kit from DNA My Dog offers the best value and results in determining how old your dog is genetically and how much longer he may live.

Question 5

Which dog DNA test is better: Embark or Wisdom Panel?

Accepted Answer

Embark is easily the best dog DNA test kit. It offers the most accurate breed identification because it compares over 200,000 biomarkers against its database of more than 350 breeds.

It also offers comprehensive health screening of over 200 medical conditions so you can learn about what diseases your pet may develop in the future. Best of all, it does all of this for under $200.

Question 6

How does DNA affect weight and weight loss?

Accepted Answer

Some of the factors that affect your weight – including your appetite, fitness levels, and ability to lose weight and keep it off – are genetic. Being aware of these genetic predispositions may help you decide what type of weight management strategy is best suited to your goals.

With that said, biology is not destiny, and your genes are only part of the picture. Factors such as your eating habits, level of physical activity, and age also play a huge role in your weight. When you’re looking for an effective weight management strategy, you should take all of these factors into account – and consult with a doctor or nutritionist before embarking on any new diet program.

Question 7

Can a DNA test help you lose weight?

Accepted Answer

A DNA test by itself can’t help you lose weight, but it can help you formulate a diet and weight loss plan that’s tailored to your specific genetic traits. This helps you make the most of your weight loss efforts and lets you manage your weight and fitness long term.

Question 8

How accurate are DNA weight loss kits?

Accepted Answer

A DNA test looks at specific genetic markers in your DNA that have been shown to be associated with various physical and physiological traits. DNA tests are able to interpret these markers pretty accurately and tell you what they mean. While no DNA test is 100% accurate, the companies listed here use the latest science and accredited labs.

Question 9

What sort of things do DNA weight loss kits measure?

Accepted Answer

DNA weight loss kits can explore factors such as the speed of your metabolism, your genetic likelihood of being overweight, whether you’re genetically predisposed to experience food cravings, and how quickly you may regain weight after weight loss. The reports can also give you insights into how your body responds to exercise and whether you could potentially have a vitamin deficiency.

Question 10

Can a DNA test tell you what to eat?

Accepted Answer

No DNA test will give you a complete diet plan. But, depending on the test you take, your results may include recommendations for foods that meet the nutritional needs of your genes. These foods might be recommended based on what your body responds to best for weight loss, or what your body needs based on deficiencies. A test like LivingDNA can tell you exactly which foods to include in your diet, and which ones to drop out.

Question 11

Does insurance cover the cost of DNA weight loss kits?

Accepted Answer

Insurance does not typically cover the cost of DNA weight loss test kits.  That said, you should get in touch with your insurance provider to fully understand your options.

Question 12

What is the best DNA weight loss kit?

Accepted Answer

There are many DNA tests available to facilitate weight loss. The one that works best for you will depend on your personal preferences and goals. All of the tests on this list meet our high expectations for accuracy, thoroughness, and actionable insight.

Our top choice overall though, has to be Living DNA.It gives you the most comprehensive results, with a detailed look at which foods to include to help with weight loss, what to avoid, where you have deficiencies, and how your body metabolizes certain foods.

Question 13

Is an at-home COVID-19 test painful?

Accepted Answer

No, not at all. In fact, all three of the tests on our list are non-invasive. LetsGetChecked and Everlywell require a simple nasal swab, and the Vitagene test is a saliva sample. Easy, fast, and painless.

Question 14

What&rsquo;s the point of getting tested for COVID-19 if there&rsquo;s no cure?

Accepted Answer

Knowing if you have the virus helps you manage your symptoms to ensure the best recovery. It also lets you know whether you need to self-isolate to protect your family and the wider community or whether you can go back to work safely, without the risk of infecting others.

Question 15

Who should take an at-home COVID-19 test?

Accepted Answer

If you currently have symptoms of COVID-19 or think you might have been exposed, you are a good candidate for a home testing kit. All of the test kits on our list require you to complete an eligibility checker before you purchase a test.

If you are experiencing severe symptoms, do not wait for a test kit. Seek immediate medical help.

Question 16

Can I purchase more than one coronavirus test kit per household?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but you may need to purchase each kit separately and fill out the eligibility questionnaire for each person in your household who requires a test.

Question 17

Will a coronavirus test kit tell me if I had the virus in the past?

Accepted Answer

No, the tests on our list test for the presence of the live virus. They do not test for antibodies, which indicate that you previously had and overcame the virus.

Question 18

Are Coronavirus test kits covered by insurance?

Accepted Answer

While most insurance companies will cover the cost of a COVID-19 test if it’s been prescribed by a physician, not all do, so it’s vital that you check with your insurance provider for the latest information.

Question 19

Are COVID-19 at-home tests accurate?

Accepted Answer

The coronavirus test kits on our list are all highly accurate, as it’s one of our key criteria. LetsGetChecked, Vitagene, and Everlywell all use CLIA-approved testing labs to ensure the highest degree of accuracy and reliability in processing and results. Do note, however, that the tests may not be able to detect the presence of the virus in its very early stages, so no test can guarantee 100% accuracy.

Question 20

What happens if my test results are positive for COVID-19?

Accepted Answer

If your test comes back positive, you&rsquo;ll get the opportunity to speak with an independent medical professional. The company from whom you purchased the kit will also provide you with recommendations and guidance on what to do next.

Question 21

How long does it take for chlamydia to show up positive on a test?

Accepted Answer

You can get tested for chlamydia as little after 24 hours after exposure, as tests screen for the presence of bacteria from a genital swab or urine sample. However, for an accurate result and to reduce the risk of a false negative, you should wait two weeks after unprotected sex before having a chlamydia test.

Question 22

Is there an over-the-counter STD test?

Accepted Answer

There are a few places that may stock over-the-counter STDs tests, such as CVS and Walgreens. However, the selection of tests is usually limited to just a few STDs and you forego your anonymity, by having to ask a salesperson for the test kit.

Question 23

Is it possible to get same-day STD results?

Accepted Answer

Yes, it is possible to get same-day results for certain STDs, but they’re only available in a select number of STD clinics or private practices. However, these same-day tests are often expensive and require a visit to the clinic – if there is even a clinic providing this service near you – which won’t provide the same level of privacy as the STD providers on this list. For example, to visit one of these clinics, you need to provide identification, answer personal questions, and the results of the same-day STD tests may show up on your medical report.

The companies on this list specialize in private and discreet STD testing. Plus STDCheck.com issue results in as little as 24 hours, which is great if you want a swift diagnosis and the ability to start treatment immediately.

Question 24

How quickly do STDs show up in tests?

Accepted Answer

Not all STDs show up in tests at the same time and if you test for an STD too soon after exposure, it can result in a false positive. For accurate results, you need to test for STDs after the window period is over, which is when STDs can be detected in blood, urine, and genital swab samples. The windows for the most common STDs are:

Chlamydia – 1 to 5 days
Gonorrhea – 2 to 6 days
Syphilis – 2 to 6 weeks
Hepatitis A – 2 to 7 weeks
Hepatitis B – 6 weeks
Hepatitis C – 8 to 9 weeks
Herpes Type I and II – 4 to 6 weeks
HIV (antibody test) – 1 to 3 months
HIV (RNA test for early detection) – 9 to 11 days
Trichomoniasis – 5 to 28 days

Question 25

Do positive STD results take longer?

Accepted Answer

Sometimes positive results can take longer to come back from the lab, and some tests take longer to process than others. However, with all the companies on this list, you&rsquo;ll receive your results as quickly as possible, delivered all at once if you have tested for multiple STDs, in your secure online account.

Question 26

What are the ingredients in the Pfizer-BioNTech Covid-19 vaccine?

Accepted Answer

The Pfizer vaccine contains synthetically produced elements, as well as natural substances.

Among these are a number of inactive ingredients: phosphate, sodium chloride, potassium chloride, monobasic potassium, dibasic sodium, phosphate dihydrate, and sucrose, as well as some traces of other ingredients.

Question 27

Can the Pfizer-BioNtech vaccine cause people to develop Covid-19?

Accepted Answer

No, it does not. In fact, mRNA technology means that no live virus is present. The vaccine simply gives instructions to replicate one small part of the Covid-19 DNA.

Question 28

Do mRNA vaccines change a person&rsquo;s DNA?

Accepted Answer

No, this is not true. RNA vaccines cannot combine with the body&rsquo;s DNA. Unlike a traditional vaccine, which contains inactivated versions of the virus, mRNA merely delivers a message to the body and is then destroyed.

Question 29

Does the vaccine cause infertility?

Accepted Answer

There is no evidence to suggest the vaccine causes infertility, despite common (and incorrect) claims that the short ‘amino acid sequence’ in mRNA vaccines is shared with placenta, and thus interferes with it.

In reality, there’s quite a distinction between these two sequences, and any effects between them are extremely unlikely.

Despite this presumption, pregnant women should consult a qualified healthcare professional before taking any of the available vaccines.

Question 30

What about allergies and the Pfizer-BioNTech Covid-19 vaccine?

Accepted Answer

Pfizer-BioNTech has not tested its vaccine on people who are sensitive to serious allergic reactions, as per the advice of the CDC. However, no one involved in testing for Pfizer reported any serious allergic effects.

Following the mass rollout of the Pfizer-BioNTech Covid-19 vaccine, there has been a tiny number of allergic reactions. The majority of reactions in people with allergies occurred within 30 minutes of vaccination, and most of these reactions were in female candidates.

Symptoms include generalized urticaria, wheezing, swelling of the lips or throat, nausea, and a rash. These effects are constantly being monitored by Pfizer, and individuals with a history of allergic reactions should be observed by a healthcare professional for at least 20 minutes after injection.

Question 31

When will Pfizer-BioNTech share more information about vaccinating those in younger age groups (12-15 and 16-17 years of age)?

Accepted Answer

Though initial tests did not include younger age groups, Pfizer-BioNTech eventually started a smaller trial with around 1,000 12-15 year-olds enrolled. More participants will be enlisted after this group has received its second dose, and all data will be released once the analysis is complete.

In the meantime, in February 2021, Israel announced the Pfizer-BioNTech would be made available to people aged 16 and over.

Question 32

Will I need a booster jab of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine every year?

Accepted Answer

Until there is some more data, taken over an extended period of time, we simply do not know how long immunity from the vaccine will last. Many general vaccines require booster jabs every year or every few years, and some vaccines can provide immunity for an entire lifetime. It all depends on how our bodies react to the treatment.

Question 33

How do I obtain or purchase the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine?

Accepted Answer

The Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine is not for private sale. However, you may be able to receive a jab through your government’s vaccination program. Refer to our ‘basic info’ section to see if Pfizer is approved in your nation, or ask a civil representative to find out if it’s administered in your area.

Question 34

Is the Oxford/AstraZeneca Vaccine Safe?

Accepted Answer

The Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine has gone through rigorous testing, conducted on tens of thousands of participants from a diverse range of cultural settings.

The results of these trials have been reviewed in-depth by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (the MHRA). In total, data for more than 23,000 trial participants has been analyzed.

The MHRA considered these results satisfactory and deemed the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine safe to use.

Question 35

Will I need a booster jab every year?

Accepted Answer

There isn’t enough long-term immunity data to confidently answer this question. However, most viral vector vaccines provide immunity for about 1 year, and sometimes much longer.

How does the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine compare to other vaccines in terms of efficacy?

Though initial data positioned Oxford’s efficacy at around 60-90%, subsequent trials have revealed an efficacy of 82.4% for two jabs administered 8-12 weeks apart. This is significantly higher than the WHO’s minimum requirements.

The data shows that the jab is very effective when compared with other vaccines. In fact, the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine is more effective than your average flu jab.

Question 36

How do I obtain or purchase the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine?

Accepted Answer

You cannot privately purchase Oxford/AstraZeneca&rsquo;s vaccine, though you may be able to receive a jab through your government&rsquo;s vaccination program. Refer to our &lsquo;basic info&rsquo; section to see if Oxford/AstraZeneca is approved in your nation, or ask a civil representative to find out if Oxford is administered in your area.

Question 37

Is the Moderna Covid-19 vaccine safe?

Accepted Answer

As of February 2021, Moderna’s vaccine has not yet received emergency use approval by the WHO. However, the vaccine has been authorized in several states, and it has also undergone a thorough review by the European Medicines Agency (EMA).

The findings of the EMA’s review validate Moderna’s mRNA-1273 vaccine as a safe and effective treatment for Covid-19 in Europe. These results place the vaccine in-line to receive emergency authorization from the EU.

In addition to this review, Moderna’s clinical trials were a success. After a long-term assessment and follow-up with tens of thousands of patients, Moderna scientists found no concerning events had occurred and were ultimately satisfied with the data.

That is not to say that there is ‘no chance’ of Moderna’s vaccine proving unsafe for you. Data on subgroups like children and pregnant women is sparse in comparison with other groups, and individuals should seek professional counsel if they are concerned.

Question 38

Who can take the Moderna Covid-19 vaccine?

Accepted Answer

The vaccine is deemed safe for use by those with known health conditions that correlate with an increased risk of severe Covid-19 infection. This includes hypertension, diabetes, asthma, pulmonary, liver, or kidney disease.

It’s recommended that immunocompromised people take Moderna’s vaccine, unless any accentuated circumstances put them at risk. The same is true for HIV-positive patients. Though research is not complete on the matter and if you’re unsure you should contact your doctor.

Breastfeeding women are safe to take the vaccine, and suspending breastfeeding after receiving the vaccine is unnecessary.

Though safe, if you have been infected with Covid-19 within 6 months of your scheduled Moderna vaccine, you may need to wait. Some nations enforce this interval, and you can check with your doctor.

Question 39

Should pregnant women get the Moderna vaccine?

Accepted Answer

There is a somewhat limited data-set on how the Moderna vaccine affects pregnant women. However, based on current information about mRNA vaccines, it’s thought unlikely that the vaccine causes any adverse effects.

Pregnant women are also at additional risk of Covid-19, and many healthcare professionals believe the benefits of taking the vaccine outweigh the risks.

That being said, pregnant women could still be at risk of negative side effects from the Moderna Covid-19 vaccine and are encouraged not to receive it in some countries. Given the limited research on the matter, we cannot claim to know everything about Moderna’s candidate, and concerned individuals should seek professional advice.

Question 40

Who should not take the vaccine?

Accepted Answer

People with histories of severe (or even life-threatening) allergic reactions to any medications should not take the Moderna Coid-19 vaccine – a recommendation from both doctors or Moderna’s scientists. Whether that allergy is medical or specific to vaccines, it does not matter.

Older persons with a low life-expectancy (less than 3 months) should be individually assessed by a healthcare professional. People under the age of 18 should also not be given this vaccine, until more is known about its effect on this age group.

Question 41

How do I obtain or purchase the Moderna vaccine?

Accepted Answer

The vaccine is not available for private purchase, though Moderna&rsquo;s vaccine may be available through your country&rsquo;s health service, or through a government program. Refer to our &lsquo;basic info&rsquo; section to see if Moderna is approved in your state, or ask a civil representative to find out if Moderna is administered in your area.

Question 42

When will mass production of the Russian vaccine start?

Accepted Answer

Mass production of Sputnik V began in 2020, both within Russia and abroad. A number of countries have also begun production of Sputnik V in 2021, including India, South Korea, Brazil, and Kazakhstan.

New orders of Sputnik V are lodged continuously, and Gamaleya’s large production line will aim to meet these rising demands.

Question 43

When will Russia provide full scientific data behind the vaccine?

Accepted Answer

Phase 1, 2 & 3 results are already published in The Lancet, and are available for public viewing. In fact, these results have been available since September and November 2020 respectively, and demonstrate the safety and efficacy of Sputnik V.

Question 44

How do I obtain or purchase the Sputnik V vaccine?

Accepted Answer

Sputnik V is available in certain countries that have approved and ordered the vaccine. In any case, vaccinations are offered by government institutions and are not available for private purchase. If you would like further information, Sputnik V&rsquo;s social media accounts outline its distribution data.

Question 45

Is the Sinopharm Covid-19 vaccine safe?

Accepted Answer

As mentioned, the vaccine has not yet finished clinical trials and we await an in-depth review of BBIBP-CorV’s performance. However, as of February 2021, all of the data that we can access suggests that Sinopharm’s candidate is likely to be safe.

Sinopharm claims that so far, Phase 3 tests show the safety of its vaccine to be “good after inoculation,” and that these results meet the WHO’s standards. All data must still be analyzed by China’s drug regulatory authority.

In spite of this, there is still a possibility of unknown adverse effects in specific conditions. Those who are unsure about the vaccine should await the results of China’s phase 3 review, and receive professional counsel before taking BBIBP-CorV.

Question 46

Why do some countries report different efficacy results?

Accepted Answer

While efficacy in China was 79%, UAE has announced a higher efficacy of 86% for BBIBP-CorV.

Sinopharm says that the variance in data is down to procedural differences and that both values are indeed correct in their own right. Though this does seem slightly confusing.

It’s worth noting, however, that age, health condition, genetics and cultural background can all change a vaccine’s efficacy. The divergence in these variables between the Chinese and Arabian populations may well be another factor to consider.

Question 47

When will phase 3 trials finish?

Accepted Answer

Sinopharm’s phase 3 program is vast and has tested candidates across a wide range of cultural settings – with 10 different countries involved in trials. Since July, 60,000 people have been tested in Sinopharm trials, and the practical element of these trials has now been concluded.

The vaccine has received conditional marketing approval, suggesting its benefits outweigh any potential risks. All of the available data is now being compiled and analyzed by the Chinese health authorities, and Sinopharm awaits the results of this review. If successful, the vaccine will be granted full approval.

Question 48

How do I obtain or purchase the Sinopharm vaccine?

Accepted Answer

You cannot privately purchase the vaccine. However, Sinopharm&rsquo;s candidate may be available through your country&rsquo;s health service, or through a government program. You can check our &lsquo;basic info&rsquo; section to see if your nation has approved the vaccine, or ask a civil representative to find out if Sinopharm is administered in your area.

Question 49

What is a vaccine?

Accepted Answer

A vaccine is a biological mixture, designed to provide patients with immunity to an infectious disease, or pathogen. Vaccines either contain inactivated genetic material from the disease or a genetic sequence copied from the virus. This promotes the production of antibodies in the patient.

Question 50

Are Covid-19 vaccines safe?

Accepted Answer

Covid-19 vaccines are considered safe. Candidates are not approved until they have undergone rigorous testing over 3 stages of trials. This schedule culminates in a trial based on tens of thousands of patients.

All tests conducted on vaccines are in line with regulatory protocol, and this data is then peer-reviewed by the relevant regulatory body. Vaccines that have been submitted for approval, are not authorized without meeting adequate thresholds for safety and efficacy.

Question 51

Is it safe to get the vaccine if I am pregnant, or breastfeeding?

Accepted Answer

A large number of pregnant, or breastfeeding women have, understandably, expressed concern over the current vaccines. Data on the effect of Covid-19 vaccination in these groups is relatively limited compared to some others, but in vaccination programs thus far there have not been any reports outlining negative effects in pregnant, or breastfeeding women.

Most governments are recommending these two groups for vaccination. Pregnant women are at a higher risk of severe Covid-19 exposure, and it is thought that the benefits of vaccination outweigh the potential risks in this case. However, if you have any concerns you should consult a doctor, or qualified healthcare professional.

For breastfeeding women, scientists do not believe there are risks related to receiving a Covid-19 vaccine, nor is it thought vaccination can cause a change in breastmilk. Though, as stated beforehand, research on the matter is incomplete. The message from governments is that this group can safely receive a vaccine, although you may seek advice before doing so.

Question 52

How many shots are needed?

Accepted Answer

Most of the candidates currently on the market, or in development, are designed to be administered over two doses. These doses are generally spaced apart by around 2-4 weeks, with efficacy increasing after the second dose.

Some vaccines can be given in just a single dose. The upcoming Johnson & Johnson vaccine and CanSino’s vaccine are two high-profile examples. A single dose vaccination presents several advantages. Not only can the vaccines be administered more quickly, but a sufficient number of jabs can also be purchased for less money – as only half as many doses are needed.

Question 53

Could I have an allergic reaction to the vaccine?

Accepted Answer

Allergic reactions to Covid-19 vaccines are very rare. Notwithstanding, there have been several reports of allergic reactions to the vaccines. Some of the jabs seem to provoke this response more than others. In particular, CanSino’s vaccine has been noted for causing these reactions.

This type of reaction is known as ‘anaphylaxis.’ As a result of anaphylaxis, many governments are asking people with allergies to stay for observation 15-20 minutes after vaccination – to be certain no adverse effects occur.

Certain vaccines are considered so safe that governments have stopped this measure altogether. With other jabs, people who have a history of severe medical/vaccine allergies, or other types of severe allergy, are not recommended a coronavirus vaccine. If you are concerned, please seek advice from a healthcare professional before taking the vaccine.

Question 54

Which lasts longer, natural immunity or vaccine immunity?

Accepted Answer

The simple answer to this question is that we do not know. Not yet, anyhow.

The immunity you gain from a viral infection is known as ‘natural immunity.’ The length of time we are protected in this way varies between diseases, and we will not know this figure for Covid-19 until we have more data, analyzed over a longer period of time. We do know that recatching coronavirus within 90 days of initial infection is uncommon.

More data must also be conducted on vaccines, and how long they can provide immunity. Vaccines have not been in circulation for very long, and thus we need more time before we can fully understand how long ‘vaccine immunity’ lasts.

Question 55

Who is paying for vaccines?

Accepted Answer

Vaccines are funded in different ways, and the current crop of manufacturers is made up of profit and non-profit organizations. Most companies have received assistance in funding from governments. Moderna has received such funding from the US government, but once its obligation to the US is complete, Moderna’s vaccine is ultimately sold for profit.

Other vaccines, like Sputnik V and Oxford-AstraZeneca, are projects spearheaded by government institutions, or private companies not looking to profit from the pandemic. These vaccines are sold at a lower price, just enough to cover the cost of research, manufacture and distribution.

Question 56

If I&rsquo;ve already had Covid-19, do I need a vaccine?

Accepted Answer

It is important that you receive a Covid-19 vaccination, even if you have been infected with coronavirus in the past.

Reinfection is possible, and it is not known how long ‘natural immunity’ from the virus will last. Vaccination is the best way to strengthen your chances of immunization.

Most governments recommend that, if you have been infected by Covid-19 recently, you should wait to receive the vaccine until time has passed. This recommended period of time can range from 28 days to 90 days, or even as long as 6 months in some countries. Consult your doctor to find out about this requirement in your region.

Question 57

Will I need to be vaccinated for work?

Accepted Answer

In the majority of nations, vaccination is not enforceable by law. However, receiving a vaccination is mandatory in several professions.

For government employees and healthcare workers, vaccination is normally compulsory. Other private companies, or public-facing roles, may require employees to receive a coronavirus jab. Check with your employer and local government advisories to see if this is the case.

Question 58

When will it be my turn to get a vaccine?

Accepted Answer

Each nation, or state, has constructed its own mass vaccination plan based on factors that are specific to that region. The reasoning behind deviations could include social, cultural, and economic factors, the extent to which the virus is spreading in the region, or the supply of jabs that is available to that region.

Plans aim to vaccinate high-risk and vulnerable groups first. If you are not considered within one of these categories, you will more than likely be lower down on the waiting list for a coronavirus vaccine.

Vaccination plans, which prioritize some groups over others, aim to minimize transmission and the damage done by coronavirus. For more information on your government’s plan, seek advice from a government representative.

Question 59

Do I need a Covid-19 booster shot every year?

Accepted Answer

This question is quite hard to answer, as we are in the initial stages of vaccinating populations. We, therefore, don’t know everything about the current candidates, and we have a limited data-set on how long these vaccines can prove effective.

There are trends in certain technologies. Most viral vector vaccines (the same technology as Oxford) provide immunity for around a year, although the figure can be much higher. Inactivated vaccines (like Sinopharm’s candidate) often require booster shots – but again this is not the same for all of them.

Generally, vaccines can require a booster shot every year, two years, five years, or ten. A few vaccines even provide lifetime-immunity. The fact is that each vaccine is different, and our body reacts to every vaccine uniquely. Until we have more long-term data, we cannot know how well our bodies will retain immunity from coronavirus jabs. As a result, we don’t currently know if booster jabs are required.

Articles by Katy Willis

Katy has been researching and writing for more than 15 years. She has a deep understanding of DNA and at-home health testing for humans and pets. She believes in providing genuine, honest information that helps people achieve their goals.