What to Expect After Getting a COVID-19 Vaccine

COVID-19 cases and deaths continue to rise. According to the CDC, as of Jan 11 2021, there are 22,322,956 total cases, with 373,167 deaths

As the vaccines are being distributed across the country, many states have streamlined vaccine rollout plans to administer doses and get people vaccinated as quickly as possible.

Along with practicing and adhering to the recommended safety guidelines, the vaccine is yest another tool to help prevent the spread of the virus. With any new vaccine comes many questions about how safe it will be and what benefits the vaccine provides.

Now that people are beginning to get vaccinated, many questions about side effects and the number of doses needed have surfaced. The CDC provides helpful information regarding what you can expect after getting the vaccine.

COVID-19 Vaccine Side Effects

COVID-19 vaccination will help protect you from getting COVID-19. You may have some side effects, which are normal signs that your body is building protection. These side effects may affect your ability to do daily activities, but they should go away in a few days.

Common side effects:

  1. Pain and swelling on the arm where you got the shot
  2. Fever
  3. Chills
  4. Tiredness
  5. Headache

If you have pain or discomfort, talk to your doctor about taking an over-the-counter medicine, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. To reduce pain and discomfort where you got the shot, apply a clean, cool, wet washcloth over the area, and use or exercise your arm.

When to call the doctor

In most cases, discomfort from fever or pain is normal. Contact your doctor or healthcare provider:

  1. If the redness or tenderness where you got the shot increases after 24 hours
  2. If your side effects are worrying you or do not seem to be going away after a few days

With most COVID-19 vaccines, you will need 2 shots for them to work. Unless your Doctor tells you not to, you should get the second shot even if you have side effects after the first shot. The second shot will provide more protection than just receiving one shot.

It takes time for your body to build protection after any vaccination. COVID-19 vaccines that require 2 shots may not protect you until a week or two after your second shot.

It’s important for everyone to continue to practice safety and proper hygiene. Cover your mouth and nose with a mask when around others, stay at least 6 feet away from others, avoid crowds, and wash your hands often.​

According John Hopkins Bloomberg School of Health, it is still possible to contract COVID-19 between doses. This is why it is important to continue to wear a mask, practice social distancing, and wash your hands.

They also note; the first dose will not provide complete protection, and it will take about seven days after your second dose before you will achieve a full protective level of immunity that develops in about 95% of vaccine recipients. If you are exposed to SARS-CoV-2 before this time, it is possible that you could develop COVID-19. The side effects of the vaccine typically start within 12 to 24 hours of vaccination. If you experience side effects that last beyond 48 hours, you should contact your doctor or medical provider for advice.

We’re Here to Help

In these challenging times, the risk of exposure is more prevalent than ever. We offer the following safety service options:

COVID-19 CONSULTING BUNDLE – Written directive/policy on requirements which can be either a corporate policy or a site-specific policy.

COVID-19 TRAINING (INFECTION CONTROL WEBINAR) – We offer Open Enrollment Classes and Private Company Sponsored Classes made available at your convenience.

COVID19 TESTING – We now offer COVID-19 Testing Services For Colleges, Universities, Private Companies, And Public Agencies

If you have concerns about your workforce and coronavirus, please contact us today to learn about steps you can take to protect yourself, your family, and your employees.