Moderna vs. Pfizer: How are they similar and different?

ORLANDO, Fla. — Florida has a plan to distribute Moderna doses as soon as we get them, which will likely be next week.

An FDA committee on Thursday gave its OK late this afternoon, and the Moderna vaccine could be authorized for emergency use as soon as tomorrow.

However, there are some differences between the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines that are worth noting, despite being very similar.

Here are some similarities and differences:

Both rely on Messenger RNAs to work.
Both appear about 95% effective after the second dose.
Pfizer’s doses are about three weeks apart, while you have to wait four weeks for Moderna’s second doses.
Pfizer’s vaccine is authorized for use in teens as young as 16.
If Moderna gets authorized, it can only be given to people 18 years and older.
The FDA found trial participants in both Pfizer’s and Moderna’s studies experienced things like headaches, fevers and fatigue after receiving doses, but recovered in a day or two.
Three people in Moderna’s trial did report a form of temporary facial paralysis called Bell’s Palsy, while there were also four people in Pfizer’s Trial. The FDA said it does not believe either vaccine is to blame.

The governor this week said more than a dozen Central Florida hospitals will receive Moderna doses when they’re finally rolled out.

For a list of Florida hospitals that will receive Moderna doses, click here.