Pfizer, a biopharmaceutical company, and their partner BioNTech, a German biotech company, have created a vaccine to battle the coronavirus. They have reported that it is 90% effective and that their late-stage trials were a success. The FDA is waiting to call for distribution until test patients receive second round of the vaccine and there are no health concerns. This is what we know so far.

How does it work?

The vaccine brings in mRNA that carries a spike protein from the virus. Once our immune system recognizes the virus, it will learn how to attack it. By doing this, the vaccine has been getting ready for the real thing.

When will it be released?

After a few more months of collecting data, Pfizer plans on submitting the vaccine to the FDA. Pfizer will get it examined by experts to further test the safety and effectiveness of the vaccine. This process will take several months.

Who will get the vaccine first?

Health care workers, older adults, and people with risk of diabetes and obesity are more likely to receive the vaccine first when it is released. Who actually qualifies for receiving the vaccine has not been confirmed.

What can we do?

Even though a vaccine is on the way, we should continue to wear masks and practice social distancing to keep us safe.