Types of Covid 19 Vaccines
1. Live-Attenuated Vaccines:
- Injects weakened live germs/viruses to induce immunity
- Allows the body to produce long-lasting memory B-cells
- Provides lifelong immunity with 1-2 doses
- Used for measles, mumps, rubella, rotavirus, smallpox, chickenpox, yellow fever
2. Inactivated Vaccines:
- Uses killed virus/bacteria
- Less potent immune response, requires periodic boosters
- Examples: Hepatitis A, flu, polio, rabies
3. mRNA Vaccines:
- Trigger immune response by synthesizing proteins.
- Fast production, low cost, requires ultra-cold storage.
Example: COVID-19 vaccines (Pfizer, Moderna).
4. Viral Vector Vaccines:
- Modify viruses to deliver protection
- Use harmless viral vectors to trigger immune response
Examples: COVISHIELD, Russia's Sputnik.
5. DNA and Recombinant Vector Vaccines:
- DNA vaccines use genetic material to create antigens
- Recombinant vector vaccines reproduce engineered live viruses
- Under development, focus on efficacy and immune response
6. Toxoid Vaccines:
- Use toxins from bacteria/virus to create immunity.
- Focus on specific toxins causing diseases.
Examples: Diphtheria, tetanus.
7. Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (PCV)
- Tackles Pneumonia, Meningitis & Sepsis
- Reduces Dependence on Antibiotics
All Vaccines have a slight mild side effect
8. Whole Virus Vaccine:
- Live attenuated or inactivated types
- Requires conventional storage
Example: COVAXIN (inactivated).
9. Protein Sub-Unit Vaccine:
- Uses viral subunit with adjuvants for immune response
- May require booster doses.
Example: NOVAVAX
10. mRNA (Nucleic Acid) Vaccine:
- Inserts RNA code to produce viral antigens
- Requires extreme cold storage
Examples: Pfizer, Moderna.
11. Viral Vector Vaccine:
- Gives genetic instructions using harmless viral vectors.
- Requires conventional cold storage
Examples: COVISHIELD, Sputnik
12. Others:
Subunit, Recombinant, Conjugate, Polysaccharide Vaccines:
Suitable for weakened immune systems
Use specific parts of germs/viruses for a strong immune response
Examples: Hib, Hepatitis B, HPV, whooping cough, shingles.
