HOUSTON (CW39) The Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine is arriving in our community this week. This is part of the second shipment of vaccines for Harris County. The first shipment arrived last week and that was the Pfizer vaccine, and was administered by hospitals to their staff. Harris County Public Health (HCPH) is receiving 3,000 doses to vaccinate Tier-1&2 groups per the Texas COVID-19 Vaccination plan. Tier-1&2 individuals are considered hospital workers, who work to protect the community and residents at long-term healthcare facilities, who are at high risk of developing complications from COVID-19, followed by first responders and essential workers.
There are differences and similarities between the COVID-19 vaccines. While the Pfizer vaccine has to kept at very cold temperatures (-70˚C) the Moderna vaccine also needs to remain at frozen, but not at ultra-cold temperatures which is more ideal for providers who do not have ultra-cold storage capabilities. Both vaccines require a second dose from the same manufacturer a few weeks apart after the first dose to get full protection, thus it is recommended that individuals go to the same provider. You will get full protection from the vaccine usually 1–2 weeks after getting your second dose.