Part 9/16:
The conversation then shifts to vaccine science, explaining the differences between traditional approaches like inactivated or live-attenuated viruses and modern mRNA technology. Christakis describes how mRNA vaccines (like Pfizer and Moderna) teach the body to produce viral proteins (spike protein), prompting immune defense without using live virus.
He notes the logistical challenges: the Pfizer vaccine requires ultra-cold storage (-80°C), complicating distribution, while Moderna’s vaccine needs less extreme refrigeration, making it more practical. The importance of equitable and strategic distribution is stressed, including prioritizing healthcare workers, vulnerable elderly, and essential responders.