It therefore can provide better protection against newer COVID-19 variants. But instead of targeting only the original COVID-19 virus, the updated version also targets the Omicron variant. The bivalent vaccines are based on the original vaccines. bivalent Moderna/Spikevax or bivalent Pfizer-BioNTech/Comirnaty) and the original vaccines? What are the differences between the bivalent vaccines (e.g. Please refer to MUIS’ religious position on the COVID-19 vaccine by using this link. The Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (MUIS)’s position is that COVID-19 vaccines are permissible for Muslim use. generation of antibodies), similar to what happens in a natural infection against COVID-19. The spike protein generated through the introduction of the COVID-19 mRNA is recognised by the body’s immune system to develop an immune response (e.g. The mRNA is completely degraded within 48 hours of introduction to the human body. Since our human genome is made up of DNA, there is no possibility that the COVID-19 mRNA will interfere with or modify human DNA. The mRNA vaccine is in a form that is cannot be converted back to DNA.

No, they are not a form of genetic modification. It does not enter the nucleus of cells and hence cannot interfere with the DNA of the vaccine recipient.Īre mRNA vaccines a form of genetic modification? The vaccine mRNA only persists for two days before it is naturally broken down by the body. The spike proteins are however incapable of forming SARS CoV-2 viruses or causing COVID-19 infection. This stimulates the production of a good antibody and cellular immune response to the spike protein that protects the vaccinated person because the spike protein is an important part of the SARS CoV-2 virus. After being given by intramuscular injection, the vaccine mRNA is taken up by cells which then produce the spike protein. The mRNA used in the vaccine is synthesised and not extracted from actual viruses. The COVID-19 mRNA vaccine consists of messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) that carry instructions to make the spike protein of the virus. Only vaccines deemed suitable for use in target population subgroups, and where overall benefits outweigh the known risks, are recommended for use by the Expert Committee. All are currently available in Singapore. These vaccines are offered under the National Vaccination Programme. The Expert Committee on COVID-19 Vaccination (EC19V) has also recommended the use of the Pfizer-BioNTech/ Comirnaty, Moderna/Spikevax and Novavax/Nuvaxovid COVID-19 vaccines by the majority of the population, and the use of Sinovac-CoronaVac by persons who are medically ineligible to receive the other vaccines. The Health Sciences Authority (HSA) has authorised the Pfizer-BioNTech/ Comirnaty, Moderna/Spikevax, Novavax/Nuvaxovid and Sinovac-CoronaVac COVID-19 vaccines for use in Singapore. Which vaccines are approved for use in Singapore? Which of these vaccines are included in the national vaccination programme? Can the vaccines protect me against all strains of COVID-19?įor more popular FAQs, please click here.Ĭlick Ctrl+F (On Windows) or Cmd+F (On Mac) to look for word of interest, or find latest FAQs on top of each section.How effective is the vaccine? How long does the protection last?.

What happens if I develop an allergic reaction to my first dose?.What are the side effects of COVID-19 vaccination? What should I do if I suffer from any side effects?.Will the COVID-19 vaccine cause infertility?.Is COVID-19 vaccination safe for those with chronic illness such as hypertension, high cholesterol and diabetes?.How can I be sure that it is medically safe for me to get vaccinated?.What is myocarditis and pericarditis? Can the vaccine lead to myocarditis and pericarditis?.How can we be sure that scientific rigour has not been compromised? Vaccines for COVID-19 have been approved for use in a shortened timeframe compared to other vaccines or drugs.What is the difference between the Bivalent Moderna/Spikevax and the Bivalent Pfizer-BioNTech/Comirnaty COVID-19 vaccines? Which should I receive?.

What are the differences between the bivalent vaccines (e.g.Are mRNA vaccines a form of genetic modification?.Which vaccines are approved for use in Singapore? Which of these vaccines are included in the national vaccination programme?.

Moderna side effect data