Myths And Facts About Covid-19 Vaccines

By Dr. Akshay Chugh in Internal Medicine

Apr 16, 2021

With so much information—and misinformation—circulating online about COVID-19 vaccines, it can be difficult to know what’s true and what isn’t. Relying on credible, up-to-date sources is essential when making decisions about your health.

In this article, we debunk some of the most common myths surrounding COVID-19 vaccines and provide science-backed facts to help you stay informed.

Also Read: How Dangerous Are the New COVID-19 Variants in 2025?

Myth 1: COVID-19 Vaccines Can Give You the Virus

Fact: You cannot get COVID-19 from any approved vaccine.
COVID-19 vaccines authorized for use globally do not contain live SARS-CoV-2 virus. Therefore, they cannot cause infection. Instead, they teach your immune system to recognize and fight the virus if you’re exposed later.

How it works:
Vaccines introduce a harmless piece of the virus—like a spike protein—prompting the immune system to produce antibodies. If you’re later exposed to COVID-19, your body will already know how to respond, significantly reducing your risk of illness.

Even if you’ve had a prior infection, getting vaccinated boosts your immunity and provides stronger, longer-lasting protection.

Also Read: Impact of Increased Screen Time in Children A Burning problem in Covid Era

Myth 2: After Vaccination, Masks and Social Distancing Are No Longer Necessary

Fact: Precautionary measures still matter—especially in high-risk environments.
While vaccines drastically reduce the risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and death, they don’t eliminate the virus completely. Breakthrough infections can still occur, and vaccinated individuals may still transmit the virus to others.

Why it matters:
Wearing masks in crowded spaces, maintaining social distance, and practicing good hand hygiene continue to be important—especially for vulnerable populations, including the elderly and immunocompromised.

Also Read: Diabetes and Hypertension Care during COVID-19 Pandemic

Myth 3: COVID-19 Vaccines Alter Your DNA

Fact: COVID-19 vaccines do not change your DNA.
mRNA vaccines—such as those developed by Pfizer and Moderna—work by delivering instructions (messenger RNA) that tell your cells to produce a protein found on the surface of the virus.

The mRNA never enters the nucleus of your cells, where your DNA is stored, and it breaks down naturally within 48 to 72 hours. There’s no mechanism by which the vaccine can alter your genetic code.

Myth 4: A COVID-19 Vaccine Will Cause a Positive Viral Test Result

Fact: Receiving a COVID-19 vaccine will not result in a positive viral test.
PCR and rapid antigen tests are designed to detect current infections. Since the vaccine does not contain live virus, it won’t cause a positive test result for COVID-19 infection.

However, if your body produces antibodies in response to the vaccine—as intended—you may test positive on an antibody test, which simply indicates previous exposure or immune response.

Also Read: A recipe to allay fears of cardiac patients keeping away from hospitals for fear of COVID

The Bottom Line

Vaccination remains one of the most powerful tools in fighting COVID-19 & its emerging variants. Misinformation can be dangerous, especially during a global health crisis. Rely on accurate information from trusted medical professionals and organizations like the WHO and CDC.

Remember:

• Vaccines do not cause COVID-19
• They do not alter your DNA
• Precautions still matter after vaccination
• They won’t cause a positive result on a viral test

Staying informed is key to protecting yourself and those around you.