Question

What is in the COVID-19 vaccines?

22 December 2020. Related: All topics, COVID-19.

Answer

Answer: Simon Collins

None of the COVID vaccines in the UK contain live viruses. There is no risk of catching coronavirus from the vaccine.

The active parts of a vaccine only use a protein from the outside of the coronavirus. Or they tell your body how to make these proteins.

This does not cause an infection.

Vaccines also include other ingredients that help the vaccine work. For example the Pfizer vaccine contains traces of sodium and potassium. This is sufficiently low to still be called sodium-free and potassium-free.

It also contains sucrose and this, together with all other ingredients, is listed on the patient leaflet that you get before the injection. This is also online now if you want to check first (see further information in the final question linked below).

This is one of more than 65 questions about COVID vaccines. It was produced by and for people living with HIV.
Q&A on COVID vaccines: are they safe and effective?
https://i-base.info/qa/16330