Are there important differences between vaccines?

The Moderna and Pfizer vaccines are made with similar technology and provide similar high levels of protection against COVID.  These vaccines require two doses several weeks apart. 

The Johnson & Johnson vaccine is made with older technology and was designed to require only one dose.   Recent studies suggest it is less effective against new strains of the coronavirus.  Rare, but potentially serious, side effects have also been linked to this vaccine.  For this reason, the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine is recommended for most people. 

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1. I already had Covid, so why would I need the vaccine?
2. Will the vaccine protect me against variant strains of the coronavirus?
3. Are there important differences between vaccines?
4. How do we know the vaccine is safe and effective?
5. I read the vaccine is 95% effective. Does that mean there is still a 5% chance I could get Covid?
6. I am fully vaccinated. Do I need a booster shot?
7. What do we know about side effects?
8. I have doubts about the Covid vaccines because they were developed so quickly.
9. I read the vaccine is 95% effective. Does that mean there is still a 5% chance I could get Covid?