Vaccination is key to protection against COVID-19. Naturally, you want to learn as much as possible before getting your vaccine. Keep reading to learn what you can expect with vaccination: scheduling, benefits, possible side effects of COVID vaccine, and more.
What To Expect
Before Getting the Vaccine
COVID-19 vaccination is free. Those eligible for the vaccine can schedule appointments through pharmacies, physicians’ offices, and other healthcare facilities. Vaccination supplies can change frequently or even daily, so keep checking back and look for multiple sites if you can’t schedule an appointment right away.
During Your Appointment
You don’t need to do any prep for the shot. Just show up to your appointment a few minutes early and wear a mask covering your nose and mouth. Choose clothing that makes it easy to access your upper arms. Remember to keep at least six feet away from others.
After vaccination, you’ll need to stay for about 15 to 30 minutes to ensure you don’t have an allergic reaction. Staff will provide you with a card or printout with key details — which version of the vaccine you received, plus the date and location. You’ll also get more information about the specific version you received.
After Your Vaccination
Depending on which COVID-19 vaccine you received, you may need to make a second appointment. For the Pfizer or Moderna versions, schedule the follow-up shot three to four weeks after your first one. The Johnson & Johnson vaccine requires only one dose.
After you’ve been vaccinated, you can resume normal activities. Continue to wear a mask and stay at least six feet away from others until you’re fully vaccinated. You’re considered fully vaccinated two weeks after getting your final shot — the single shot of the Johnson & Johnson version and the second shot of the Pfizer and Modern vaccines.
Possible Side Effects After Getting a COVID-19 Vaccine
While some people may experience minor side effects with COVID-19 vaccines, no long-term effects have been detected. Common Moderna, Johnson & Johnson, and Pfizer COVID vaccine side effects at the shot site include pain, redness, and swelling. Other overall side effects have been observed, usually within six weeks of vaccination:
- Tiredness
- Muscle pain
- Headache
- Chills
- Fever
- Nausea
Some simple steps can minimize any discomfort. For pain or swelling at the shot site, apply clean washcloths dipped in cool water. Continue using that arm as normal. With fever, drink plenty of fluids and wear lighter clothing. You can take over-the-counter pain relievers, but talk about this first with your doctor.
COVID19 Vaccine Benefits
COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective. They prevent people from contracting and spreading this illness to others, especially those with underlying medical conditions that increase the risk of severe illness. Even in breakthrough cases, vaccinated individuals are far less likely to become seriously ill. They’re much safer than deliberate exposure to COVID-19, which can result in major illness and long-term health effects.
Get Tested for COVID Today With ARCpoint Labs of Woburn
At ARCpoint Labs of Woburn, we understand that accurate information is vital when making important health decisions. Thanks for reading our brief guide on COVID-19 vaccination. We hope it helped you learn about how vaccination benefits you, plus potential COVID 19 vaccine side effects.
ARCpoint Labs of Woburn, MA, offers several COVID-19 testing options. With simple and quick testing plus secure results, you can enjoy convenience plus understand your risks. Make an appointment today or reach out to us through our online contact form.
Image Source: Nr-stock / Shutterstock