This Just In: IFM information on the COVID-19 Vaccines

Inflammation and Immunity Series

In a recent webinar by The Institute for Functional Medicine (IFM) the COVID-19 vaccines were discussed. Below are my refined notes on two topics that have been brought up by my patients.

1) COVID-19 vaccines, currently dispensed in the United States, use new mRNA technology.

Quite unlike the measles, mumps, and rubella vaccines, mRNA vaccines do not contain actual live virus. The mRNA vaccine (also referred to as the "Messenger RNA Vaccine") contains instructions for making part of a protein that's unique to the COVID-19 virus —  the well-known spike protein. This infamous protein, found on the surface of the COVID-19 virus, functions as an antigen when reproduced by the mRNA vaccines. An antigen is a substance that stimulates our immune system. In this case, the reproduced spike protein is attached to non-viral cells — rather than its usual deadly host — and these dressed-up cells set off the alarm. The body then creates the antibodies and activates the T-cells it will need should the actual COVID-19 virus ever invade. The protein spike cells created number in the millions in order to instruct the immune system and create what's called 'immune memory.'  

Notably, the mRNA vaccine doesn't cause disease in the body, nor does it hang around forever. Once the body does its job and reproduces multiple copies of the spike protein, the body breaks down the mRNA strand and disposes of it using enzymes. The mRNA vaccine doesn't alter our DNA or genetic material. It never enters the nucleus of a cell.  

2) The carrier substance used by the new mRNA vaccines is polyethylene glycol.  

In order to get where it needs to go, and to stay long enough to get the job done, the mRNA strand is contained in an adjuvant, or carrier substance. Those mRNA vaccines made by Pfizer and Moderna use polyethylene glycol. This is a water-soluble additive found in medication, laxatives, cosmetics, and highly processed foods in far greater amounts. Nonetheless, one out of every 100,000 people can have an allergic reaction to this adjuvant. This reaction is called anaphylaxis.  

The most familiar remedy for breathlessness, hives, and other symptoms that can accompany an anaphylactic response is the EpiPen or epinephrine.  Chances are if you've had an allergic reaction to medications in the past, you've got an EpiPen on hand.  Check the expiration date and bring it with you to your appointment if you suspect you're the one in 100,000 who might have a reaction to polyethylene glycol. Vaccine sites across the United States are advised to have epinephrine and trained personnel on hand to treat anyone who develops symptoms. An allergic reaction occurs — if at all — within 30 minutes of receiving the vaccine.

Like the mRNA strand, itself, polyethylene glycol is broken down by an enzyme and discarded.

The webinar also included a discussion of long-haul COVID, of great concern to the IFM and to myself.  Stay tuned for more information about this evolving situation and my recommendations for rebalancing physiologic imbalances that can ensue after exposure to COVID-19.

About the Inflammation & Immunity Series

This series of “doable” weekly installments, focused on gut health and immunity, is designed to help you understand the ways in which your defenses might be down and your overall health degraded. It’s meant to empower you to act in measurable and realistic ways. In the middle of a global crisis, you can take it upon yourself to get stronger. I want to help you understand your vulnerabilities and suggest ways you can realistically improve your health. Chances are, these are changes your body has been asking you to make for a while now.