Concerns About the Safety of mRNA Vaccines

This chapter explores the history of mRNA vaccines, common concerns over mRNA vaccines, misinformation regarding mRNA vaccines, the misinterpretation of VAERS data regarding mRNA vaccines, and the potential downsides of debunking. mRNA vaccines are not a brand-new technology, with mice studies of mRNA-based influenza vaccines dating back to the 1990s. Some common concerns regarding mRNA vaccines can be founded in religion, such as beliefs that mRNA vaccination violates their religious beliefs. However, multiple religious organizations have spoken out in support of the COVID-19 vaccination. Concerns are also related to the relative novelty of mRNA vaccinations for infectious diseases. There is also rampant misinformation regarding mRNA vaccinations, such as the false belief that it can alter DNA in those injected. Another common form of misinformation is Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS) reports. One example of misinterpretation and misinformation is the open letter from Florida Surgeon General Dr. Joseph Ladapo. Finally, there may be potential downsides to debunking misinformation, stating that mRNA vaccines do not contain live viruses, which can make live virus vaccines seem dangerous.