How long will it take for a vaccine to work?

The speed of protection provided by a vaccine depends on the speed at which antibodies are produced and how quickly T-cell immunity will develop. T-cell immunity for the COVID-19 vaccine is built up after 14 days. The antibodies will only appear after 3 to 4 weeks. Some vaccines require a second dose to achieve a sufficiently high and long response and protection. We can assume that 2 weeks after the last administration of the vaccine you will be personally protected against COVID-19.

Before we can talk about protection within the entire population, 70% will have to be vaccinated. It will therefore take several months before the entire population will be protected. Until then, we will have to adhere to the hygienic measures because even if you have been vaccinated you can still transmit the disease to others. You just won't get sick anymore.

Source: https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/human-regulatory-overview/public-health-threats/coronavirus-disease-covid-19/covid-19-medicines

Author: Prof. Dr. Dirk Devroey - Latest update: 2023-12-11 - Copyright: Clinifacts 2024