Misrepresents source: The Forbes article discussed a process known as V(D)J recombination, which involves a shuffling of certain genes involved in antibody construction. This process permits the body to generate a diverse pool of antibodies with different binding capabilities. It occurs in the body as part of the normal maturation process for certain immune cells. At no point are vaccines required for this process.
V(D)J recombination is an important process in the generation of antibodies. It is a normal part of the maturation of certain immune cell groups. During V(D)J recombination, DNA segments that are involved in antibody production are cut up and rearranged in random fashion to generate a wide range of combinations that serve as unique blueprints for antibody production. This process is behind the diversity of our body’s antibody repertoire and helps the immune system to respond to different kinds of disease-causing microorganisms.
FULL CLAIM: Forbes article is evidence that COVID-19 vaccines change our DNA
On 29 November 2021, Forbes published an article written by Steven Salzburg, a professor of biomedical engineering at Johns Hopkins University, bearing the headline “Yes, The Vaccine Changes Your DNA. A Tiny Bit. That’s A Good Thing”. The article’s headline was disseminated on social media by individuals who previously spread vaccine misinformation, viewing the article as mainstream validation for the false claim that COVID-19 vaccines alter DNA (see examples...
When asked to comment on recent claims by the head of Taiwan's regional foreign affairs department that the Taiwan authorities are conducting dialogues and consultations with politicians and socia...